director, donor experience and advancement services
overview
the director, donor experience and advancement services (deas) leads the strategic direction and development of donor engagement and stewardship initiatives. reporting to the associate vice president & campaign director (university advancement), this role is key in advancing institutional objectives, including lakehead’s $70 million philanthropic capital campaign.
the director will oversee three units—stewardship, operations, and proposal/impact report writing—under the newly created donor experience and advancement services umbrella. this role contributes to strategic planning as part of the university advancement executive leadership group, ensuring best-in-class donor engagement strategies and fostering long-term relationships.
responsibilites
a. leadership and strategy:
- develop and implement a comprehensive donor stewardship & engagement plan.
- enhance donor satisfaction through personalized communication and recognition initiatives.
- oversee donor impact reporting, naming opportunities, and acknowledgement policies.
- stay abreast of trends in donor behaviour and introduce innovative strategies to strengthen donor loyalty.
b. donor engagement:
- lead recognition events and customized donor stewardship programs.
- provide strategic leadership for annual legacy gift recognition initiatives.
- ensure timely, personalized donor acknowledgement and cultivate impactful donor relationships.
c. partnership and relationship management:
- collaborate with teams across advancement, including alumni, annual, and major gifts.
- partner on donor recognition initiatives to ensure consistent stewardship and acknowledgement.
- department oversight:
- manage a team of four employees, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- oversee donor recognition budgets, performance standards, and staff development.
qualifications
- university degree with a cfre designation or working towards cfre or equivalent is preferred.
- minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in donor relations or fundraising.
- senior-level expertise in stewardship, donor communications, and advancement operations.
- strong knowledge of cra regulations, ethical fundraising standards, and donor acknowledgement systems (e.g., raiser's edge nxt).
- excellent communication skills and experience in strategic planning, budget management, and team leadership.
- proficiency in microsoft office and familiarity with design platforms such as canva is an asset.
- valid ‘g’ class driver’s license and passport required.