Chief Advancement Officer - Mellon College of Science

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a Chief Advancement Officer for the Mellon College of Science. This role involves leading fundraising and alumni relations, collaborating across departments, and developing strategies to enhance investment. Candidates should have extensive experience in higher education advancement and a strong commitment to the university's mission.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement savings with employer contributions

Tuition benefits

Paid time off

Childcare support

Fitness center access

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years of progressive development experience in higher education.
• At least five years in management; campaign experience is desirable.
• Deep knowledge of major gift fundraising and capital campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage fundraising and alumni relations activities.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Manage the college's donor and prospect database.

Skills

Fundraising

Relationship Building

Management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master's preferred

Job description

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) at Carnegie Mellon University houses four academic departments and numerous programs and research centers spanning various fields. Our innovative interdisciplinary approach allows us to address scientific challenges from unique perspectives while building upon a strong foundation in core sciences provided by our departments. Our faculty members are esteemed both nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research in areas such as polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

We are currently seeking a Chief Advancement Officer to lead and manage the vision, planning, and execution of fundraising and alumni relations activities for the Mellon College of Science. This position reports to the Dean of the Mellon College of Science, Barbara Shinn-Cunningham.

University Advancement at CMU is a matrixed and distributed organization, with staff based in central units and in academic units. The Chief Advancement Officer will integrate college-level advancement operations with centrally based programs and resources. Collaboration with fundraisers across CMU's schools, colleges, and central units is essential to develop strategies that maximize impact institution-wide. Additionally, the role involves partnering closely with Advancement Information Services to define, measure, and report on success.

Core responsibilities include:

1. Providing leadership and management for fundraising and alumni relations activities within the college.
2. Serving as a senior member of the Dean's management team to develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
3. Identifying and articulating fundraising priorities aligned with strategic objectives.
4. Supporting the Dean and senior faculty in advancement activities.
5. Developing strategies for recruiting and engaging the Advocacy Council of alumni and corporate leaders.
6. Coordinating with corporate relations, foundation relations, and central gift officers to enhance investment.
7. Collaborating with university advancement departments such as donor relations, campaign planning, alumni relations, and services.
8. Reporting on advancement activities' results related to the college.
9. Managing the college's donor and prospect database.
10. Developing and overseeing the department budget.
11. Managing a portfolio of donors and prospects.
12. Leading, coaching, and evaluating direct reports.
13. Maximizing organizational effectiveness through other duties as assigned.

We seek candidates who demonstrate adaptability, excellence, and passion, capable of interacting with diverse internal and external partners with integrity. Alignment with our values and support for the university's mission are essential.

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent; master's preferred.
• Minimum of ten years of progressive development experience in higher education, including at least five in management; campaign experience is desirable.
• Deep knowledge of major gift fundraising and capital campaigns.
• Proven success in developing relationships with deans, volunteer leaders, and major donors.
• Experience in staff and program management.

Requirements:

• Successful background check.

Application Process:

Carnegie Mellon University has retained Isaacson Miller to assist in this search. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV or resume via Isaacson Miller's portal, referencing the Chief Advancement Officer, Mellon College of Science.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance.
• Retirement savings with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits, paid time off, holidays.
• Additional perks like transit passes, childcare support, fitness center access, and more.

For details, visit our Benefits page.

We value your unique skills and perspectives, considering your entire profile beyond credentials. Join us to grow professionally and personally in a role that fits your aspirations.

Interested? Apply today!

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function: University Administration and Management

Position Type: Full-time Staff

More Information:

• Learn why Carnegie Mellon is inspiring innovations that change the world.
• View our employee benefits.
• Carnegie Mellon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.