This hybrid role as a Development Associate is based primarily at the North Campus in Edmonton, Alberta. Reporting to the Assistant Dean, Development, this position focuses on building and nurturing relationships with individuals, corporations, associations, and foundations interested in supporting the University of Alberta's Faculty of Engineering.
The Development Associate will collaborate with faculty leaders and the engineering development team to foster strong personal and professional connections, engaging alumni, donors, and the community with the Faculty’s philanthropic priorities. Key aspects of the role include aligning donor interests with institutional and faculty priorities, developing funding proposals, and negotiating complex gifts. The successful candidate will comfortably interact with colleagues, senior executives, the Dean of Engineering, volunteers, stakeholders, and supporters.
Your Key Responsibilities
Participate in the development and execution of fundraising strategies for the Faculty, working closely with the Dean of Engineering, Assistant Dean, Development, and faculty leaders. Collaborate with the Assistant Dean, Development, to establish and evaluate annual fundraising targets and operational plans.
Cultivate and manage a portfolio of major donor and prospect relationships, conducting regular in-person visits as required. Partner with Development and Alumni Relations on fundraising program strategies, alumni engagement, prospect identification, and annual giving initiatives for the faculty.
Work with the Office of the Recording Secretary on gift processing, including agreements and terms of reference, ensuring appropriate gift acknowledgement and coordinating major donor stewardship with Donor Relations. Collaborate with the Assistant Dean, Development and External Relations colleagues on various writing projects such as cases for support, proposals, and stewardship reports.
Engage with other faculty-based and central fundraisers, academic leaders, and senior university representatives. Participate in Development community activities, training opportunities, information sharing, and the implementation of joint initiatives.
Assist in creating and executing plans that involve the Dean in faculty fundraising goals and visits with top prospects and donors. Prepare and provide briefing materials to the Dean, Assistant Dean, Development, and faculty leaders to support donor engagement strategies.
Participate in coaching and leadership to engage faculty members in strategic fundraising activities, including preparation and follow-up. Schedule and plan necessary travel to facilitate personal visits with top prospects.
What You'll Bring
An undergraduate degree is required; an advanced degree is considered an asset. A minimum of five years of experience in major or planned gift fundraising is essential, with a proven track record of closing gifts of $50,000 and greater, preferably within higher education. Related experience in sales, financial services, and business development will also be considered.
Demonstrated ability to develop strategies for and implement major gift solicitations. Capability to prepare, coach, and brief academics and faculty leaders for fundraising activities. Proven ability to work autonomously and manage multiple accounts simultaneously. Demonstrated ability to be a contributing member of multidisciplinary teams.
Knowledge of various fundraising tools and strategies, with experience across the entire giving cycle, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Ability to understand the needs and interests of major gift donors to match priorities and build relationships between them and the University of Alberta.
A keen interest in all aspects of Engineering and a dedication to promoting the university's fundraising priorities through excellent relationship development with faculty, academic leaders, volunteers, and External Relations representatives. Strong project management, organisational, and time management skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written. Ability to meet deadlines and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Regular travel to visit donors and prospective donors is a requirement of this role. Possession of a CFRE certification is considered an asset.
Why Join the University of Alberta
The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $82,715 to $137,865. We are a community of knowledge seekers, change makers, and world shapers, leading with purpose daily. Your work will meaningfully influence a diverse cross-section of people, from students and community members to renowned researchers and innovators, contributing to discoveries and solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger, and more just.
The Faculty of Engineering is recognised as one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and significant impact. It provides an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach combining technical excellence with emotional intelligence.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process and welcomes applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who can contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
