• Associate Director for External Affairs

    University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg, MS)


    Special Instructions to Applicants

     

    Submit Resume and Cover Letter.

     

    Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

    Job Summary

    The Associate Director for External Affairs provides strategic leadership for the Alumni Association, driving membership growth, revenue development, and alumni engagement initiatives. This role oversees the design and execution of membership campaigns, sponsorship opportunities, and affinity partnerships while fostering meaningful connections with students, alumni, and community partners. Working closely with the Executive Director, this position ensures that programs, events, and volunteer efforts strengthen alumni involvement and advance the mission of the Association.

     

    Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

     

    + Membership – Responsible for the continued development and coordination of an integrated program to cultivate and solicit new and renewing membership in the Alumni Association, as well as marketing the Life Membership program of the Association. Establish clear and concise goals and objectives to achieve predetermined membership levels and monitor the budgets needed to accomplish these goals and objectives. Work with Executive Director regarding expenditures for solicitations and promotions, ensuring that projects fall within financial guidelines, and coordinating to allow desired results with financial limitations. Collaborate with Advancement Communications to develop membership campaigns and membership benefits program. Develop and refine programs and opportunities to educate current students about the Alumni Association and promote membership following graduation.

    + Advertising and Sponsorship – Responsible for marketing sponsorship and advertising opportunities within the Association. Coordinates and oversees the advertising program in Alumni Association publications with regard to participant relationship maintenance and development and growth of participation in the program. Maintain accurate and current files and records on all advertising and sponsorship partners.

    + Development Efforts – Responsible for assisting the Executive Director and other Association staff members and volunteers in securing charitable gifts for the approved programs and initiatives of the Association. Assist in the identification, prospecting, and researching of potential donors to the Association’s campaigns. Meet and participate with Foundation and Athletic Foundation development officers for coordination.

    + Affinity Partner Relationships – Responsible for the successful planning, execution, and management of the affinity partner and revenue development programs of the Alumni Association.

    + Engagement and Event Oversight – Responsible for the day-to-day leadership of the Association’s staff regarding engagement opportunities, programs and events.

    + Special Projects – This position will, from time-to-time, handle special projects and assignments given to it by the Executive Director.

    + Performs other duties as assigned.