Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations

About the role

Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations. Position Details Location Hattiesburg 118 College Drive Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001 United States Division College of Business and Economic Development Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Pay Grade E15 Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). Job Summary   The Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations provides strategic leadership for fundraising, alumni engagement, corporate partnerships, and external relations within the College of Business and Economic Development. Reporting to the Dean, the position develops and implements advancement initiatives that increase philanthropic support, strengthen relationships with alumni and external stakeholders, and advance the College's mission and strategic priorities. The Assistant Dean collaborates with the University Foundation, Alumni Association, College leadership, and community partners to expand fundraising opportunities, enhance stakeholder engagement, and support the long-term growth and success of the College. Primary Duties and Responsibilities     Assists the Dean in developing and implementing a comprehensive advancement strategy that increases philanthropic support through annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, endowments, corporate sponsorships, and foundation partnerships. Cultivates, solicits, and stewards relationships with alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and community partners while managing a portfolio of prospective and current donors. Collaborates with the University Foundation and Alumni Association to coordinate fundraising initiatives, donor stewardship, alumni engagement, prospect management, and advancement communications. Develops and strengthens relationships with alumni, corporate leaders, and external stakeholders to increase engagement, volunteerism, mentoring opportunities, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships. Represents the College with alumni, donors, corporations, professional organizations, advisory councils, and community partners to promote the mission, priorities, and visibility of the College. Monitors fundraising performance, prepares reports and advancement materials, maintains accurate donor records, and provides recommendations to support fundraising goals and strategic initiatives. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Higher Education, or a related field, and five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, advancement, development, alumni relations, corporate relations, or a related field. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of fundraising principles, donor cultivation, stewardship, alumni relations, and advancement best practices. Knowledge of corporate engagement, sponsorship development, and strategic partnership cultivation.  Ability to develop and implement comprehensive fundraising and external relations strategies. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with donors, alumni, corporate leaders, community partners, and University stakeholders. Excellent interpersonal, presentation, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities, analyze information, and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, University Advancement, and external constituents while maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics. Preferred Qualifications   Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Higher Education, or a related field and previous experience working in higher education. About The University of Southern Mississippi Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit  .  The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.