Chief Advancement Officer, Engineering Growth & Alumni

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University seeks a seasoned fundraising leader to serve as Chief Advancement Officer for the College of Engineering. You will partner with the Dean, lead a high-performing team, and direct all fundraising, alumni relations, and stewardship activities to advance COE's mission.

The CAO will shape strategy, build donor relationships domestically and internationally, and align philanthropy with academic strengths. A track record of major gifts and program leadership is essential.

Qualifications

• Progressively responsible advancement experience in higher education.
• Demonstrated success in major gifts, corporate and foundation support.
• Strong writing, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to lead diverse staff and programs with strategic vision.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for fundraising, alumni engagement, and stewardship activities for the College of Engineering.
• Partner with the Dean and senior leadership to implement advancement strategy.
• Identify and prioritize fundraising opportunities aligned with strategic objectives.
• Lead major gift cultivation, solicitation, and donor stewardship.
• Collaborate with faculty to translate research strengths into fundraising opportunities.
• Manage and measure advancement performance and outcomes.
• Develop and manage the advancement office budget and resources.

Skills

Major gift fundraising

Campaign leadership

Relationship management

Staff leadership

Strategic planning

Writing and communication

Diversity and inclusion

Ethical governance

Education

Bachelor’s degree required

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University seeks a seasoned fundraising leader to serve as Chief Advancement Officer for the College of Engineering. You will partner with the Dean, lead a high-performing team, and direct all fundraising, alumni relations, and stewardship activities to advance COE's mission.

The CAO will shape strategy, build donor relationships domestically and internationally, and align philanthropy with academic strengths. A track record of major gifts and program leadership is essential.