Chief Advancement Officer - Mellon College of Science

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) at Carnegie Mellon University houses four academic departments and numerous programs and research centers that span various fields. Our innovative interdisciplinary approach allows us to address scientific challenges from unique perspectives while building upon the strong foundation in core sciences provided by our departments. Our faculty members at MCS are esteemed both nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research in diverse areas such as polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

We are currently seeking a Chief Advancement Officer to provide leadership and management for the vision, direction, planning, and execution of fundraising and alumni relations activities for the Mellon College of Science. This position will report to the Dean of the Mellon College of Science, Barbara Shinn-Cunningham.

University Advancement at CMU is a matrixed and distributed organization, with staff based in central units and in the academic units. The Chief Advancement Officer is key to integrating college level advancement operations with centrally based advancement programs and resources. The Chief Advancement Officer will collaborate with fundraisers across CMU's schools, colleges, and centrally based units to develop cultivation and engagement strategies to achieve maximum impact across the institution. The Chief Advancement Officer will also partner closely with Advancement Information Services to define, measure, and report on their unit's success.

Core responsibilities include:

• Providing leadership and management of the direction, planning, and execution of fundraising and alumni relations activities for the Mellon College of Science.

• Serving as a senior member of the Dean's management team to create and implement a comprehensive fundraising and alumni relations strategy.

• Identifying and articulating fundraising priorities for the college in support of strategic objectives.

• Setting the strategy for and supporting the Dean's and senior faculty members' advancement activity.

• Setting strategy for recruitment and engagement of college's Advocacy Council comprised of alumni and corporate leaders.

• Coordinating with corporate relations, foundation relations, and central gift officers in fundraising activities that lead to increased investment.

• Collaborating with central university advancement departments, including donor relations, campaign planning team, alumni relations, and advancement services.

• Reporting on the results of all advancement activities related to the college.

• Managing the college's database of donors and prospects.

• Developing and managing the department budget to support development activities.

• Personally managing a portfolio of donors and prospects for the college.

• Leading, coaching, and evaluating the performance of direct reports.

• Helping maximize effectiveness across all levels of the organization through other duties as assigned.

• Other duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon. 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 writing, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills.

• A commitment to Carnegie Mellon University's mission.

• Cultural sensitivity in interacting with a diverse alumni population both domestically and internationally.

• In-depth knowledge of university governance, administration, and operations.

• Ability to initiate, analyze, monitor, evaluate, and alter strategic development plans and achieve revenue results.

• Strong supervisory, coaching, and mentoring skills.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of training and experience required (master's degree preferred).

• At least ten years of progressively responsible development experience in higher education, with at least five of those years in management; experience in a campaign environment is desirable.

• Advanced knowledge of major gift fundraising and capital campaigns.

• Demonstrated success in developing and managing relationships with deans, volunteer leadership, and major donors/prospects.

• Staff and program management experience.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

NOMINATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES:

Carnegie Mellon University has retained Isaacson Miller for assistance in this exciting search.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited.

Applications should include a cover letter/letter of interest, CV, or resume.

Application materials should be submitted using Isaacson Miller's candidate portal at: Chief Advancement Officer, Mellon College of Science.

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

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

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

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the 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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