Strategic Alumni & Development Director

Cornell University; Town of Ithaca (NY); Hybrid; USD 157,000 - 192,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care options

Retirement contributions

Wellness programs

Paid time off

Job summary

Cornell University invites applications for the role of Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs & Development in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. This senior development leader will guide fundraising and alumni engagement aligned with ILR priorities and collaborate with campus partners to maximize philanthropic support.

The role requires building strategic donor plans, managing major gifts, and working across a matrixed university environment to advance ILR’s mission and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 7–10 years fundraising experience preferred.
• Proven success in developing and executing fundraising strategies.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration across a complex organization.
• Ability to work as a collaborative partner within a shared service model.

Responsibilities

• Lead a development program as chief development officer for the ILR School.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with major donors, alumni, and stakeholders.
• Partner with the Dean, faculty, alumni, volunteers, and donors to secure support.
• Build relationships with fundraisers in central AAD to advance ILR fundraising aims.
• Develop donor strategies to secure meaningful philanthropic support and long-term engagement.
• Collaborate with alumni affairs, major gifts, and university partners to maximize outcomes.

Skills

Fundraising strategy

Donor relationships

Communication skills

Collaborative partner

CRM proficiency

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Cornell University invites applications for the role of Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs & Development in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. This senior development leader will guide fundraising and alumni engagement aligned with ILR priorities and collaborate with campus partners to maximize philanthropic support.

The role requires building strategic donor plans, managing major gifts, and working across a matrixed university environment to advance ILR’s mission and impact.