Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Maynooth University, partnering with Balmer Dawson Executive Search, invites applications for a new Director of Development and Alumni Relations to oversee Maynooth University's highly ambitious Development & Alumni Relations team.
The successful candidate will lead the next phase of growth for a nascent fundraising and alumni engagement programme that has seen significant expansion and momentum of late.
Make an Impact
Deliver a new strategy and build a culture of giving
You are a strategic fundraising professional with a passion for education? Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and leading transformational giving?
If so, we invite you to apply for the role of Director of Development and Alumni Relations at Maynooth University.
We are seeking a personable and entrepreneurial strategic leader with a strong record of success in fundraising for a large complex organisation; experience as an empowering team manager; an understanding of the trends in alumni engagement; and an ability to work collegially across the University to build a culture of philanthropy using the data-driven systems and processes to propel a modern development and alumni relations office.
* Reporting to: Vice-President External Affairs
* Key relationships: Foundation Board, University Executive Members, Governance Finance Teams, and the President of the University
About Maynooth University
Maynooth University is in the top 90 global Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. It is also recognised among the top 600 universities in the world and in the top 250 European universities.
It is a place of lively contrasts - a modern institution, dynamic, rapidly-growing, research-led and engaged, yet grounded in historic academic strengths and scholarly traditions.
The engaged alumni community of more than 95,000 and its committed supporters play a vital role in shaping the future of today's MU students.
As the University embarks on an ambitious phase of growth, it seeks an experienced leader to drive fundraising and alumni engagement to support its strategic objectives.
The Role
As a senior leader at the University, the Director of Development and Alumni Relations will be at the forefront of the University's fundraising initiatives, building robust relationships with donors, alumni, and stakeholders.
They will develop and implement strategies that enhance philanthropic giving and ensure the long-term sustainability of the institution.
Key Responsibilities include:
* To manage and deliver an effective fundraising strategy for Maynooth University to support the goals of the University Strategic Plan 2023-28
* Deliver annual fundraising targets that will enable the University to achieve a step change in the level of giving by maximising income generated from a range of sources
* Lead and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including major gifts, legacy giving, and corporate partnerships
* Cultivate and steward relationships with key donors and alumni, fostering a culture of philanthropy
* Develop innovative engagement programs to strengthen alumni ties with the institution
* Oversee fundraising campaigns and events, ensuring their success and impact
* Be a senior level ambassador for Maynooth University with external and internal stakeholders, providing a leadership voice that projects with confidence and passion the vision and strategy of Maynooth University, its priorities projects, and the success of its graduates
About You
You will be a results-driven professional holding a Bachelor's degree (minimum), with 7+ years of experience in fundraising or philanthropy within a university, charity, or complex organisation.
You should have direct team leadership experience, a strong understanding of higher education fundraising, and a proven track record of securing major gifts from individuals, companies, and organisations.
The role requires strategic thinking, leadership skills, and the ability to work independently at a senior level.
An entrepreneurial mindset, experience managing multi-stakeholder projects, and knowledge of fundraising databases, governance, and compliance are essential.
You should be data-driven, innovative, and experienced in working with volunteers and foundation boards.
Strong communication, networking, and interpersonal skills are crucial, along with an ambitious approach to inspire donors and colleagues.
A commitment to Maynooth University's mission, values, and fostering a culture of philanthropy is essential.
Why Join Maynooth?
Be part of an ambitious, values-driven institution with a commitment to imagining and creating better futures for all.
Opportunity to make a significant impact on future generations, working for a national leader in access to higher education.
Work with an enthusiastic team of professionals in a collaborative environment.
Competitive salary and benefits package.