Executive Director for Alumni Affairs Position Available In Forrest, Mississippi

Executive Director for Alumni Affairs
Hattiesburg, MS, United States
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req4642 Posted on: 4/15/2025 Executive Director for Alumni Affairs The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Executive Director for Alumni Affairs. Position Details
Location Hattiesburg 118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division Office of the President
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Full Time
Grant Funded No
Pay Grade E17 Posting Close Date May 16, 2025 Job Summary
The Executive Director is responsible for directing the affairs of the Alumni Association in a manner consistent with the organization’s charter, bylaws and policies; established objectives; applicable federal and state laws and regulations; and within established fiscal parameters. The Executive Director is the chief staff executive and has day-to-day responsibility for all services provided through the Alumni Association including membership development, field operations, program development, financial stewardship, fundraising and administration. The position reports to the Special Assistant to the President and the Southern Miss Alumni Association’s Board of Directors. Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities Alumni Programs – Serves as the senior staff person responsible for all services to the University’s alumni. Advises on the development of policy and procedures to build alumni support for the University, and leads the design and implementation of programs, projects and initiatives through which alumni can assist the University in achieving stated institutional goals. Coordinates the development and implementation of the Association’s goals and objectives and executes policy decisions of the Association through its stated strategic plan. Focuses efforts of the Alumni Association staff, geographic and interest-based alumni groups and Board of Directors, on the priorities of the University as outlined in its strategic plan. Strives to constantly improve two-way communication between the University and its alumni, including print media, electronic communication, public speaking, personal visitation and other correspondence/communication avenues. Serves as publisher of the quarterly alumni magazine, The Talon and Secretary/Treasurer of the 501(c)(3) non-profit.
Volunteer Coordination and Board of Directors – Orients and motivates staff and volunteers to carry out the work of the Alumni Association and works to build a strong and positive relationship between the alumni staff and its volunteers and other campus entities. Coordinates the meetings, mailings and activities of the Association Board of Directors and Executive Committee, as well as the Past Presidents Council, along with various other volunteer groups and provides leadership on the goals and objectives of each leadership group.
Liaison with University Administration – Serves as a strategic partner with the administration. Directs activities of the Association and works to maintain and improve communication between the University and Association. Works closely with the numerous departments on campus for the betterment of the University and its alumni. Represents the University in external affairs or events involving alumni and friends of the University. Assumes the primary responsibility for the planning and development of a long-term strategic plan for the Association in alignment with the University’s strategic planning goals for alumni engagement.
Strategic Financial Leadership – Develops, implements and oversees a comprehensive financial strategy, managing a multi-million dollar budget and investment portfolio to maximize resources and achieve long-term financial sustainability. Creates and manages a revenue growth model focused on increasing alumni memberships, event sponsorships and additional new streams of income for the organization’s use in engaging its alumni.
Administration – Responsible for the management and guidance of the Association staff overseeing the areas of operations, programs, membership, development, communications, information services, field work, mailing procedures, record keeping and finances. Supervises all personnel actions involving staff including, but not limited to, hiring and discipline decisions, employee evaluation, salary issues, responsibilities and assignments and motivational concerns.

Provides professional development leadership for the staff and performs other duties as assigned.
Development – Serves as the Chief Development Officer for the Association and works in conjunction with the Office of Development to lead a comprehensive advancement strategy designed to build relationships with alumni, creating opportunities for innovative investment in alumni programming and the cultivation of major gifts. Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Relations, Higher Education Administration, or a closely related field from an accredited institution, coupled with a minimum of seven (7) years of progressive experience in alumni relations, development, or senior-level management within a complex organization. A demonstrated record of success in strategic planning, fundraising, and change leadership is essential, as is proven experience in budget management and financial oversight. Furthermore, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with high-level stakeholders. A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel, including overnight stays and work outside of standard business hours, including weekends, are also required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)
Employees of this position are prohibited from disclosing confidential and proprietary information of donors and prospects, the Association, the Foundation, the University and its employees or students. This confidentiality obligation is effective while employed in this position and continues after termination of employment. Effectively communicates complex concepts, builds stakeholder confidence and fosters strong relationships with diverse audiences.
Possesses exceptional interpersonal skills, with a focus on strategic relationship building, and the ability to tailor messaging for maximum impact.
Has an understanding of best practices in crisis management and the ability to effectively lead during a time of crisis.
Demonstrated ability to establish high-performance standards, build cohesive teams, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement. Sets clear expectations, provides constructive feedback, and recognizes achievements.
Embraces data analytics as a key component of strategic decision-making and exhibits a strong understanding of digital technologies.
Maintains agility in dynamic workflows and utilizes digital platforms effectively.
Creates original, compelling content and possesses strong analytical skills to interpret complex documents (e.g., financial reports, legal documents).
Adept at problem-solving and strategic thinking.
Self-motivated and accountable for achieving results, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in demanding environments.
Manages multiple deadlines effectively and maintains discretion with confidential information.
Possesses a deep understanding of higher education and non-profit sectors, including industry terminology, fundraising best practices and current trends.
Applies strategic fundraising techniques to achieve organizational goals.
Proactively seeks opportunities for professional and team development, applying new learnings and best practices to drive innovative solutions and enhance results. Preferred Qualifications
Master’s or Doctoral degree in Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, or a related field, accompanied by ten (10) or more years of progressive leadership experience in alumni relations, development, or a related field within a higher education or non-profit environment. A proven track record of securing major gifts and leading successful fundraising campaigns is highly desired, as is extensive experience in developing and implementing strategic plans that align with organizational goals. Furthermore, demonstrated expertise in utilizing data analytics to inform decision-making and drive results is essential. Experience working with a volunteer board of directors and leading large teams is also strongly preferred. About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation’s leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.