Executive Director, Alumni Relations - Northeastern University
Boston, MA 02298
About the Job
Executive Director, Alumni Relations
About the Opportunity
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
JOB SUMMARY
The Executive Director, Alumni Relations will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive alumni engagement strategy that aligns with the university's mission and goals. This role will oversee digital and affinity engagement, career strategy programs, network activation, and the promotion of Northeastern's signature traditions to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and engaged global alumni community and to elevate the university's alumni engagement efforts.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge and skills required for this position are normally obtained through a Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of progressive experience in alumni relations, advancement, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role. Experience working in Higher Education is a plus; a master's degree is preferred.
- Demonstrated success in developing and executing comprehensive alumni engagement strategies that drive measurable results.
- Strong understanding of digital engagement tools, platforms, and emerging trends.
- Experience in designing and/or managing career development programs or services.
- Proven ability to interact with many constituencies, while building strong relationships and partnerships, with a strong emphasis on customer service.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Ability to be adaptable and flexible to changing priorities and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and changeable workplace.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with a keen attention to detail and a high level of self-confidence, creativity, enthusiasm, self-motivation, and energy to undertake diverse responsibilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES
Strategic Planning
- Responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive alumni engagement strategy that aligns with the university's mission and goals.
- Develop and implement a forward-thinking strategy that supports an engaged global alumni community.
- Collaborate with university partners and key stakeholders to ensure alignment and integration of alumni engagement efforts with the broader advancement strategy.
- Identify and prioritize opportunities to enhance alumni engagement, including digital initiatives, affinity group growth, and global outreach.
- Utilize data analytics and insights to assess engagement efforts, segment audiences, and tailor outreach strategies to meet alumni needs.
Programmatic Oversight and Growth
- Innovate and expand affinity-based engagement, fostering connections among alumni with shared interests, identities, professions, or regional affiliations.
- Oversee the development and enhancement of programs and services that support alumni career advancement, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and lifelong learning resources, while creating robust career resources for alumni at all career stages.
- Ensure the planning and execution of signature alumni events and traditions reflect Northeastern's values, culture, and strategic goals.
Relationship Building
- Activate and mobilize the global Northeastern alumni network to foster meaningful connections, community building, and lifelong engagement.
- Collaborate with volunteer leaders, regional communities, and affinity groups to drive engagement and participation in key university initiatives.
Leadership Development and Staff Management
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of three direct reports and 16 additional team members, fostering a collaborative, innovative, and results-driven work environment.
- Set clear goals, expectations, and performance metrics for the team, ensuring alignment with the overall alumni relations strategy and division objectives.
Position Type
Advancement
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education, and skills when extending an offer. Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, as well as commuting & transportation.
Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
To learn more about Northeastern University's commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity.