Associate Director, External Communications (Alumni)

California Polytechnic State University; San Luis Obispo, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

California Polytechnic State University is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications in the University Development and Alumni Engagement unit to lead the External Communications team and shape messaging that advances fundraising, alumni engagement, and the university brand.

Reporting to the Senior Director, the role will oversee editorial planning, calendar management, and cross-channel communications, while guiding staff development and process improvements in a collaborative,

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of fundraising, marketing, planned giving in higher education.
• Ability to independently research, develop, and draft funding proposals and external communications.
• Ability to contribute to the execution and evaluation of complex fundraising programs.
• Ability to analyze data from various sources, develop sound conclusions, and recommend strategic solutions.
• Working knowledge of accounting, fund management, and budgeting in support of development operations.
• Thorough knowledge of policies and regulations pertaining to university development and ability to apply them.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and operational management for the External Communications team.
• Oversee the development and execution of strategic communications that advance fundraising, alumni engagement, stewardship, and university brand objectives.
• Manage day-to-day workflow and production including project intake, resource allocation, editorial planning, and the external communications calendar.
• Advise the Senior Director on staff development and process improvements.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented team culture focused on continuous improvement.

Skills

Fundraising

Marketing

Planned giving

Donor relations

Alumni engagement

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

California Polytechnic State University is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications in the University Development and Alumni Engagement unit to lead the External Communications team and shape messaging that advances fundraising, alumni engagement, and the university brand.

Reporting to the Senior Director, the role will oversee editorial planning, calendar management, and cross-channel communications, while guiding staff development and process improvements in a collaborative,