Assistant Director, International Development - University Advancement

Carnegie Mellon is enjoying its most productive fundraising years in its history, surpassing the initial fundraising goal for its $2 billion Make Possible campaign more than 18 months ahead of schedule. University Advancement (UA) supports the entire CMU community in building relationships with key constituencies and securing the financial resources the university needs to continue its ascent. As the division grows, we are seeking an Assistant Director, International Development to join the team. This is an exciting opportunity if you thrive in an interesting and fast-paced work environment.

Reporting to the Senior Director, International Development, you will be responsible managing a portfolio of 50 prospects and cultivating donors through targeted personal outreach, and extensive virtual qualification efforts to build a strong pipeline. The Assistant Director will develop and implement giving strategies, coordinate select in-person and virtual events with alumni and parents, and collaborate with the Annual Giving team to plan solicitations, steward donors, and meet fundraising goals. Additionally, the role supports the Senior Director in critical functions such as gift administration, managing logistics for leadership events, and ensuring data accuracy in prospect management. International travel is expected 2-3 times per year for 2-3 weeks at a time.

Core responsibilities include:

• Setting and implementing annual goals for annual giving and leadership giving prospects from the East Asia region; soliciting multi-year leadership level giving commitments and managing a portfolio of 50-60 prospects with a rated capacity of $10,000 or more.

• Conducting personal outreach to alumni and parent volunteers and prospects, aiming for 50 in-person visits and 150 virtual qualification visits.

• Helping identify potential volunteers willing to participate in peer solicitations or make matching or challenge gifts for annual giving appeals.

• Appropriately stewarding donors and volunteers, ensuring meaningful engagement and recognition.

• Ensuring an appropriate level of event activity in East Asia in coordination with network leaders, including in-person and virtual events.

• Overseeing and coordinating, in collaboration with the Family Engagement team, annual new family welcome events for East Asia.

• Supporting prospect management by maintaining data accuracy, preparing briefings and reports, coordinating special events and visits, and assisting in strategy execution.

• Collaborating with faculty, deans, and advancement colleagues as needed to align engagement efforts with university initiatives.

• Keeping current on university programs, faculty research, and student initiatives.

• Developing skills and participate in training opportunities to enhance professional growth.

• Performing other duties as assigned.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon. Inclusion, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Mandarin Chinese.

• The ability to successfully collaborate and interact with poise, diplomacy and in a professional manner with varied constituencies both within and outside the university.

• The ability to work independently and as part of a team and manage multiple projects with challenging deadlines.  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• 1-3 years of experience in an area such as fundraising, alumni relations, event management, business development, customer service or communications is preferable. Experience living or working in Greater China is preferred.

• Native level fluency in Mandarin Chinese required; knowledge of other Asian languages is a plus.

• Work experience in higher education is a plus.

• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Additional Information:

• Work Posture: This position is operating on a hybrid schedule, with an on-campus/in-office presence 3 days per week.

• Travel Requirements: You should be able to travel both domestically and internationally and be willing to work outside normal business hours as needed.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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