Program Manager of External Relations and Stewardship

The Division of University Relations seeks a Program Manager of External Relations and Stewardship for the Philip Merrill College of Journalism.  The Program Manager will be responsible for providing outreach, engagement and stewardship opportunities for the college, as well as develop and maintain strong relationships with donors.  They will achieve this through school events, email communications, and fundraising appeals.  This individual will manage stewardship programs and general correspondence, maintain College of Journalism data in the Advance database, and manage and execute special events that will help support fundraising activities.  

The Program Manager of External Relations will collaborate in the implementation of a comprehensive alumni engagement program that includes events, programs, email communications and volunteer management.  The Program Manager will also work with the college’s careers/internships office to engage alumni in networking and mentoring opportunities with students.  Further, the Program Manager will work to implement a comprehensive donor relations and stewardship program that strategically engages prospects, donors and key stakeholders for the purpose of fundraising.  They will prepare stewardship communications for donors, including acknowledgement letters, emails and videos using ThankView.  They will also ensure consistent stewardship and donor relations practices, including making sure that scholarship funds are awarded and recipients are chosen annually.  

The Program Manager of External Relations will also manage a small portfolio of prospects and donors (25-35) and engage in identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding these donors.  They, in conjunction with the Assistant Dean, will help to implement and coordinate activities designed to increase alumni involvement and engagement with the college and help provide support for the Journalism Alumni Network board.    Education (include licenses, certifications, etc.):
Bachelor’s degree required.
 
Experience:
At least three years of relevant experience in non-profit, higher education or related field, including fundraising, alumni affairs, communications, event planning and/or public relations.

Candidates should also have experience with email and contact management systems, such as Emma, Advance or Blackbaud.  
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills to manage multiple deadlines, projects, contacts and details.
• High degree of attention to detail.
• Strong writing, editing and research skills.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to interact effectively with both external and internal audiences.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, think proactively, and work independently, using good judgment and experience to make decisions.
• Demonstrate strategic thinking to build cohesive and integrative programs and communications.
• Strong computer skills including expertise in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint), Google Suite and virtual platforms such as Zoom.