Manager – Annual Giving Projects

Description

The University of Illinois Foundation (Foundation) is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving organization of the University of Illinois (University). It works closely with alumni and friends, faculty and staff, corporations and foundations, as well as campus development professionals to create fundraising programs and opportunities that benefit the University.

The Manager of Annual Giving Projects Leads and directs special projects within Annual Giving that involve mass communication, solicitations, and donor engagement. Leverages emerging fundraising technologies to drive strategic outcomes and enhance project performance. 

Ensures the accurate and compliant transfer of information in alignment with University of Illinois Foundation guidelines. Serves as a point of contact for university units, the Foundation, and external vendors, ensuring successful and innovative Annual Giving initiatives.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Contributes to the ongoing development of departmental strategy. Contributes to departmental goal-setting that aligns with organizational strategic objectives by providing insights and recommendations based on project performance and industry trends.
• Leads and directs the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Annual Giving special projects. Serves as the key liaison among university units, the University of Illinois Foundation, and third-party vendors, ensuring that projects align with institutional objectives and deliver high-impact outcomes.
• Collaborates with the mass communications team to ensure project data is meticulously prepared and verified. Implements quality control measures and continuous improvements to maintain data integrity and meet evolving specifications.
• Ensures that data transfers comply with University of Illinois Foundation standards by working with technical and data teams to develop and implement robust protocols that mitigate risks and maintain audit readiness.
• Directs the project aspects of the donor portal program to optimize donor engagement and satisfaction. Provides technical support, guidance, and troubleshooting to enhance the donor experience
• Acts as the primary point of contact with platform vendors and partners for project-related matters. Manages project activities and communicates requirements clearly to external partners, ensuring deliverables are met in accordance with Foundation standards
• Provides strategic leadership by monitoring industry trends, spearheading innovative initiatives, and implementing best practices in Annual Giving, donor engagement, and digital fundraising. Regularly presents performance reports and strategic recommendations to department leaders to drive continuous program excellence
• Establishes key performance indicators (KPIs) and benchmarks to monitor project success. Provides regular, detailed reports and strategic insights to the Director of Donor Services to support data-driven decision-making and future planning

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in business, marketing, communications, or information management
• Proven ability to build and sustain productive relationships with diverse internal stakeholders and external partners, including effectively managing vendor collaborations
• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex projects, including advanced data reporting and analysis, with a strong aptitude for adopting and integrating emerging technologies
• A successful track record of managing multiple projects under tight deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, utilizing independent judgment, initiative, and strategic resourcefulness to drive innovative solutions and align projects with institutional objectives

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Five years of experience in Annual Giving, fundraising, or client/account management
• Familiarity with the University of Illinois structure and higher education advancement.
• Experience with basic data queries or data reporting, and a willingness to learn additional skills

Application Deadline: April 20, 2025

Salary: The salary range for this position is $52,000 - $60,000 per year. While our job postings include salary ranges, your compensation will be based on your specific experience and qualifications—we're not limited by these posted ranges. Our competitive compensation extends beyond typical parameters to attract and retain exceptional talent.

You'll be inspired daily in our state-of-the-art, environmentally conscious workspace -stunning LEED-certified building featuring contemporary amenities including an on-site wellness center and café with healthy dining options. We embrace work-life balance through our hybrid schedule, combining 3 days of in-office collaboration with 2 days of remote work flexibility. 

Your comprehensive benefits include SURS (State Universities Retirement System), medical, vision, and dental coverage, company paid life insurance, generous vacation time including 24 days annually, and more. We invest in your present and future wellbeing, providing the support you need to succeed.

Application Process: For full consideration for the role, all candidates must complete an online application and include a cover letter and resume. Candidates may create a profile through https://jobs.uif.uillinois.edu. For further information regarding application procedures, contact Foundation Human Resources at uifhrsearches@uif.uillinois.edu.

 

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER