Assistant Director of Advancement, College of Health & Human Sciences (3642)

Are you ready to be a driving force behind the next generation of health and human science professionals? We are seeking an Assistant Director of Advancement to fuel the mission of Northern Illinois University's College of Health and Human Sciences (CHHS). In this high-impact role you will be a strategic partner in turning philanthropic potential into tangible progress. The Skills You Bring to the Table We are looking for a relational powerhouse who can balance high-level fundraising with meticulous event management. Your toolkit should include: * The Art of Communication: A high level of proficiency in oral and written communication, with the specific ability to personally engage individuals and solicit contributions of time, talent, and philanthropic gifts. * Strategic Relationship Building: A natural talent for building lasting, productive relationships with alumni, donors, and campus colleagues. * Analytical Precision: The ability to assess complex situations accurately and devise effective strategies to advance the donor pipeline. * Event & Group Mastery: Proficiency in coordinating high-impact events and group sessions that drive networking and engagement. * Unwavering Integrity: A deep commitment to maintaining confidentiality and meeting the high ethical standards of the institution. * Adaptable & Driven: A Bachelor's degree and at least two years of relevant experience in fundraising, relations, or sales, with the flexibility to travel and work evenings or weekends as needed to reach our goals. Position Summary This position extends beyond portfolio management: you will be the primary architect of a thriving donor pipeline that directly supports student success and college innovation. Your mission includes: * Driving Philanthropic Growth: Take the lead on personal solicitations and secure vital philanthropic activity. * Cultivating Lasting Connections: Facilitate interactions with a strategically identified group of alumni and donors to advance the University's mission. * Stewardship & Storytelling: Maintain a systematic communication to inform donors of the profound impact their contributions make * Event Innovation: Organize and leverage local and regional events to foster networking and maintain a vibrant connection between alumni and the University * Volunteer Leadership: Mobilize and train Advisory Council volunteers and assist with the annual Day of Giving to enhance engagement across the board. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Personal Solicitation & Qualification - 60% * Provide knowledge and expertise related to NIUF and CHHS program engagement planning, to advance the College's current and prospective donor pipeline. * Conduct 60+ quality interactions with a strategically identified group of alumni and donors annually. * Personally solicit $1,000+ gifts, including major gifts ($25,000+) and qualify major and planned gift prospects through strategic engagement. * Secure $250,000+ in total philanthropic activity annually. * Assist with direct mail and digital solicitations. Alumni Donor & Engagement - 20% * Engage alumni and donors to cultivate support through volunteerism, event attendance, and financial contributions, ensuring meaningful participation in NIU's mission and the college's goals. * Maintain systematic communication with alumni and donors to keep them informed about the university's and college's initiatives and the impact of their contributions. * Assist with stewardship of endowed and expendable funds, ensuring appropriate utilization and communicating impact to donors. * Identify, train, and mobilize advisory council volunteers to enhance engagement and support for NIU and the college. Event Coordination & Administrative Duties - 20% * Organize new and leverage existing events locally and in key regions to foster alumni and donor networking and maintain their connection with NIU and the college, including on-site coordination. * Assist with the successful execution of the Annual Day of Giving by providing support in planning and executing related activities. * Assist with the College's Advisory Council, coordinating meetings, facilitating communication and collaboration between the council and the college. * Collaborate closely with various departments and teams, including the central engagement team, college departments, and other campus groups, to achieve Advancement goals, particularly in alumni support. Minimum Required Qualifications (Civil Service) N/A Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) (Civil Service) N/A Specialty Factors (Civil Service) N/A Preferred Qualifications (Civil Service) N/A Minimum Required Qualifications (SPS) * Bachelor's degree. * At least two (2) years of relevant experience in fundraising, alumni relations, event planning, communications, or sales. Additional Requirements (SPS) * High level of proficiency in oral and written communication. * Ability to personally contact and engage individuals and solicit contributions of time, talent, and philanthropic gifts. * Proficiency in coordinating events and group sessions. * Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication. * Ability to build lasting, productive relationships with alumni, donors, and NIU colleagues. * Analytical skills to assess situations accurately and devise effective strategies. * Commitment to maintaining confidentiality. * Availability for evening and weekend work with periodic travel. * Valid driver's license and use of personal transportation. Preferred Qualifications (SPS) N/A Physical demands/requirements * While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. * The employee frequently is required to stand for long periods of time; walk; use fingers and hands to feel, grasp, operate or handle objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. * Must be able to lift and carry 20 lbs regularly. Note: Applicant should be able to perform responsibilities and physical demands with or without reasonable accommodations.

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