Associate Director of College and Unit Annual Giving

Associate Director of College and Unit Annual Giving

Cornell University welcomes candidates for the position of Associate Director of College and Unit Annual Giving in our Alumni Affairs and Development division, based in Ithaca, NY. This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the university's advancement efforts.

In partnership with the Executive Director of Annual and Leadership Giving and Director of Cornell Funds, the Associate Director of College and Unit Annual Giving leads strategy and execution of a comprehensive annual giving program to grow unrestricted support, increase donor participation, and strengthen the pipeline across assigned colleges and units. This role partners cross-functionally to drive segmentation, messaging, and multi-channel campaigns while delivering measurable results in dollars raised, retention, and donor advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and deliver against ambitious Annual Fund revenue and participation goals across assigned colleges/units, balancing multiple segments, priorities, and timelines simultaneously.
• Design and execute multi-channel Annual Fund strategies that drive unrestricted, current-use giving, translating institutional priorities into clear, actionable plans that move quickly from concept to execution.
• Lead with data and judgment, using performance insights, testing, and industry best practices to continuously refine strategy, improve outcomes, and sustain year-over-year growth.
• Operate as a trusted expert and partner to Chief Development Officers (CDOs)--confidently guiding strategy and direction while building credibility, alignment, and trust across stakeholders.
• Manage complexity with discipline--prioritizing competing demands, maintaining momentum under pressure, and creating clarity and accountability for self and team.
• Work cross-functionally with college leadership and development to align priorities and drive integrated annual giving strategy, including segmentation, messaging, campaign execution, and stewardship.
• Write, review, and approve messaging for appeals in collaboration with CMP to ensure alignment with college/unit priorities and donor-centric best practices.

About Alumni Affairs and Development

Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division, widely regarded as one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, connects alumni, parents and friends with opportunities to advance the university's mission through philanthropy and engagement. As part of our team, you'll help cultivate meaningful relationships while working alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to excellence and educational advancement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 3 to 5 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.
• Demonstrated supervision and management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Must have strong computer software skills including MS Office, excel, power point databases and networked information systems.
• Must have excellent analytic skills to ensure data-driven results.
• Must be able to work in a team-based environment and have the ability to direct, inform, and motivate staff.
• Some travel may be required.
• Proven experience connecting inclusion, belonging and wellbeing practices to business goals.

Work Location

This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Employees typically perform this role remotely 3 days per week and on-campus 2 days per week. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time.

Rewards and Benefits

• Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.