Reports To: Provost of Seminary
Position Type: Executive Member of Provost's Cabinet
Employment Term: 5 years contract, subject to the initial 6 months of probation
Job Summary
The Director of Donor Advancement & Communications is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the seminary's donor advancement, external communications, alumni engagement, and relationships with church communities so that funding is provided for seminary operations. This role is critical in promoting the seminary's mission and fostering long-term relationships with donors and churches that support the institution's strategic goals. The Director serves as a key ambassador for the seminary, ensuring consistent and compelling messaging, strengthening connections with and securing financial support from donors, alumni, and church partners. This position is responsible for securing the funding of the Annual Scholarship Fund.
Roles and Responsibilities
Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy that effectively promotes the seminary's mission, programs, and achievements.
Oversee the creation of all internal and external communication materials, including newsletters, brochures, press releases, website content, social media, and multimediaresources.
Serve as the seminary's primary spokesperson, ensuring consistent messaging and branding across all platforms.
Work with faculty, administration, and student leaders to gather content that highlights the seminary's impact on students, alumni, and the church.
Manage relationships with media outlets, coordinate interviews, and represent theseminary in public forums, conferences, and events.
Design and implement programs to engage the seminary's alumni network, fostering meaningful relationships that support lifelong connections to the institution.
Organize alumni events, including reunions, regional gatherings, and virtual engagement opportunities, to strengthen ties with former students.
Maintain an up-to-date database of alumni, tracking professional achievements and involvement in ministry to celebrate their impact and contributions.
Develop initiatives to encourage alumni giving, volunteerism, and participation in mentoring programs for current students.
Create regular alumni communications, including newsletters, blogs, and social media content, to keep alumni informed of seminary news and opportunities for involvement.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with church leaders, denominations, and faithbased organizations to promote the seminary and its mission.
Act as a liaison between the seminary and churches, identifying opportunities for collaboration, student recruitment, and financial support.
Organize and lead church visits, presentations, and outreach events that highlight the seminary's impact on ministry and theological education.
Develop partnerships with local and global church communities to support internships, pastoral training programs, and continuing education opportunities for clergy.
Coordinate efforts with denominational leaders to ensure alignment with church expectations and theological training needs.
Supervise a team of communication, advancement, and alumni relations staff, providing mentorship and guidance to achieve departmental goals.
Partner with external stakeholders, including donors and churches, to increase scholarship opportunities and funding support for students.
Teach assigned courses.
Perform any other duties as assigned from time to time by the provost for the realization of the Seminary vision and mission.
Qualifications and Experience:
A master's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field from a recognized institution.
A certificate or diploma in donor management/advancement is an added advantage.
Understanding of theological education and church ministry is highly desirable.
Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in communications, public relations, or alumni relations, preferably in a seminary, higher education, or faith-based organization.
Experience in developing and managing strategic communications and public relations initiatives.
Experience working with church communities, faith-based organizations, or in ministry settings.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate the seminary's mission and values clearly and persuasively.
Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.
Proven ability to build relationships with donors, alumni, church leaders, and media representatives.
Proficiency in the use of digital media platforms, website management, and CRM software for alumni and donor tracking.
Experience in event planning and management, including donor and alumni events.
Deep commitment to the Christian faith, with a strong understanding of the seminary's mission and theological foundation.
A passion for storytelling and building relationships that advance the seminary's mission.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion in handling confidential information.