Executive Director of Alumni Relations
The Executive Director of Alumni Relations sets the strategic direction for engaging the university’s 370,000+ living alumni across the world and serves as a key member of the Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) senior leadership team. This position reports directly to the Associate Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations and maintains close working relationships with the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations and other leaders in the division, the UGA Alumni Board of Directors, the University of Georgia Foundation, the President’s Office, the deans of UGA schools and colleges, unit directors, the UGA Athletic Association, alumni committees, and key volunteers in the support of a cohesive and coordinated approach to programming, services and activities.
Proposed Start Date: 06/01/2026
Location of Vacancy: Athens Area
Advertised Salary: Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 12 years of professional experience to include 3 years in a leadership role.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• At least five years of senior level management experience in resource development, strategic planning, business development, or public relations/communications.
• At least 12 years of related higher education experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience related to marketing, fundraising, business development, business administration, higher education, project management, or relationship management.
• At least five years of experience working with and managing volunteer boards.
• Proven track record of fundraising success.
• Excellent working knowledge of the University of Georgia, its traditions, history, and values to foster a sense of community and support.
• Knowledge of private funding landscape in higher education.
• Ability to establish the trust of colleagues and build strong relationships with key faculty/staff.
• Ability to maintain high degree of confidentiality and responsibility regarding information related to university business and confidential donor and prospect information.
• Ability to respond to donors needs and concerns in a kind and professional way.
DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategy and Leadership - Internal Partnerships (55%)
• Alumni Relations Team
• Campus Partners
Strategy and Leadership - External Partnerships (45%)
• Engagement of Alumni, Donors, and Friends of UGA
• Strategic Leadership of UGA Alumni Board and Volunteer Leaders
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
• Work in a standard office environment
• Travel in and out of state
• Willingness and flexibility to work nights and weekends necessary
• Work using electronic mail, telephone, face-to-face discussions, paper form correspondence
• Communicate effectively in writing, speaking, and listening
• Organize and establish priorities; Remember detail; multi-task
• Lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Walk, stand, stoop, lift, kneel, climb
About the UGA Office of Alumni Relations
The UGA Alumni Association advances the academic excellence, interests, and traditions of Georgia’s flagship university by inspiring engagement through relevant programming, enhanced connections, and effective communications.
About the UGA Division of Development and Alumni Relations
The Division of Development and Alumni Relations at the University of Georgia advances the goals, objectives, and priorities of the university by generating private financial support, building, and maintaining relationships with alumni and donors, and assisting students with career development opportunities.
About the University of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online.
EEO Policy Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu ).
Higher Education
Administrative, Management, and Public Relations
Full-time