Donor Engagement & Stewardship Lead, Special Projects

University of North Carolina; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

UNC Charlotte, part of the University of North Carolina system, seeks an Assistant Director of Special Projects – Engagement & Stewardship to plan and execute donor stewardship, recognition, and engagement initiatives aligned with fundraising priorities.

The role delivers timely, thoughtful engagement that demonstrates impact to major donors, supporting the For the Love of Charlotte campaign and ongoing initiatives across University Advancement and Athletics.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of relevant professional experience in university advancement, fundraising, sales, project management, or a related field.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in higher education advancement, nonprofit fundraising, donor relations, or philanthropic stewardship.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, donor engagement practices, gift stewardship, and the importance of honoring donor intent and philanthropic commitments.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple projects with varying timelines, priorities, and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to develop project plans, monitor deliverables, and ensure timely completion.
• Experience working with graphic designers, communications teams, and marketing partners.
• High emotional intelligence and the ability to build effective internal and external relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to anticipating needs, identifying challenges, and implementing solutions.
• Computer literacy and experience with CRM systems, project management software, and reporting tools.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace; familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva, and other communications tools is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multiple teams.
• Commitment to a collegial, donor-centered approach.
• Adaptability, initiative, perseverance, and a positive, solutions-oriented attitude.

Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse portfolio of projects supporting donor relationships, stewardship, recognition, and engagement across UNC Charlotte.
• Coordinate donor visits and engagement activities; develop donor communications and impact reports.
• Maintain information about existing naming commitments and available naming opportunities.
• Improve processes to promote consistency, accountability, and efficiency.
• Collaborate across Advancement and with university and athletic partners to fulfill donor commitments and promote donor-centered experiences.

Tools

Google Workspace

Adobe Creative Cloud

Canva

CRM systems

Project management software

Reporting tools

Job description

UNC Charlotte, part of the University of North Carolina system, seeks an Assistant Director of Special Projects – Engagement & Stewardship to plan and execute donor stewardship, recognition, and engagement initiatives aligned with fundraising priorities.

The role delivers timely, thoughtful engagement that demonstrates impact to major donors, supporting the For the Love of Charlotte campaign and ongoing initiatives across University Advancement and Athletics.