Public Relations Director jobs in Lafayette, LA

Position Title: Development Office: Assistant Director Donor Relations

Department: 7030|Development Office

Responsibilities:
The Assistant Director of Donor Relations reports to the Senior Director of Development and oversees donor stewardship, acknowledgement, recognition, and engagement activities for the Ragin’ Cajuns Athletic Foundation (RCAF) through special events, donor communications, benefit fulfillment, and specialized activities. This position is primarily responsible for planning, organizing, and timely executing various high-level, meaningful donor recognition projects aimed at enhancing the donor experience and encouraging fundraising growth. 
This position will also attend and assist with athletics department games/events, donor events and other department functions as assigned. Will be required to work occasional evenings and weekends throughout the year, as well as travel occasionally.

Job Tasks & Responsibilities
Oversee the planning, execution, and on-site logistics for RCAF special events such as the pre-season socials, annual meeting, and other donor appreciation events.
Assist with key athletics department special events such as the Hall of Fame, Welcome Back Convocation, and Letter Jacket Ceremony
Prepare and lead project management plans and budgets effectively for RCAF special events and other projects
Organize and plan the communication efforts for the RCAF (including but not limited to: email blasts, e-newsletters, social media, website, direct mail, and texting campaigns) in coordination with the Advancement Communications Calendar and broader University efforts to ensure a positive donor experience

Research and implement University and industry best practices to create, manage, and execute donor relations strategies for Athletics and in coordination with central Donor Relations Team
Ensure timely fulfillment of RCAF membership benefits by working with vendors to choose, design, order, and mail annual giving membership packets, as well as high-end benefits for top RCAF members
Proactively seek out opportunities/plans and implement high quality donor recognition and stewardship efforts such as acknowledgement letters, giving societies and engagement activities in coordination with the central Donor Relations Team processes and guidelines.
Work with central Donor Relations team and vendors to manage, design and install donor recognition signage at athletics facilities

Oversee logistics of donor travel and special events/dinners at away games or post-season competitions
Oversee RCAF Student Intern Program, including recruiting, scheduling and managing interns to help serve the RCAF staff and membership
Assist with activities related to donor parking and tailgating/RV sales and fulfillment, including creation of maps, ordering of passes, etc.

Advise and assist coaches with sport-specific donor stewardship efforts
Maintain accuracy of records by providing updates to donor database; following data policies and guidelines for requesting reports and use of data
Work with supervisor to set individual performance goals and priorities annually
Actively participate in RCAF and Office of Development staff meetings and retreats
Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Excellent computer, verbal and written communication, as well as project management skills
Superior interpersonal and collaborative skills
Extremely organized and high attention to detail
Ability to build/maintain relationships and provide outstanding customer service
Capable of crafting professional documentation
Task-oriented and self-motivated with ability to meet deadlines and work independently or as part of a team
Ability to both prioritize given assignments and multi-task effectively
Ability to think critically and exercise sound judgment and decision making
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion

Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree is required, Master's preferred
3 or more years of experience, with a preference given to a background in fundraising and/or special events
A strong affinity toward and understanding of intercollegiate athletics, including an interest in enhancing the student-athlete experience through philanthropy

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