Executive Director - ASU Foundations

Job Title:

Executive Director - ASU Foundations

Location:

Albany State University, West Campus, 2400 Gillionville Road, Albany, GA 31707

Regular/Temporary:
Regularp>

Full/Part Time:
Full-Time

Job

The Albany State University Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, partners with ASU to secure private resources for the university’s strategic priorities, scholarships, institutional programs, and student success.

• Scholarships – critical financial access for students
• Endowment Growth – sustainable financial bedrock for future generations
• Institutional Enrichment – funding programs that elevate the academic and student experience
• Faculty/Staff Development – investing in the intellectual capital of the university
• Operational Excellence – ensuring the highest standards of stewardship and impact

This Executive Director role shapes the future of ASU by connecting donor generosity with student success and creating life‑changing opportunities for students.

Albany State University offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment committed to professional growth.

The Executive Director serves as strategist and operator, leading philanthropic growth while commanding foundation management and compliance. As chief advancement officer, the Executive Director holds ultimate responsibility for all operations, leads capital campaigns, and translates institutional ambitions into tangible results.

• Architect a visionary long‑term strategy linked to ASU’s mission and capitalizing on philanthropic opportunities.
• Partner with University Advancement leadership to execute institution‑wide fundraising priorities.
• Guide the Foundation Board in strategic planning, mission development, and a compelling case for support.
• Represent the Foundation at major university events to advance donor and alumni engagement.

• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with key donors, alumni, corporations, and foundations to secure major gifts.
• Manage the top 50 donor portfolio with annual visits and solicitations for university priorities.
• Oversee a sophisticated planned giving program to build a pipeline for future support.

• Provide rigorous financial oversight, budget management, investment and endowment management, and compliance with 501(c)(3) laws.
• Administer gifts and endowments according to donor intent, scholarship criteria, and institutional investment policies.
• Partner with ASU financial aid to award scholarships and address student funding needs.
• Prepare all financial reports, audit reports, statistical analyses, and documentation for annual tax returns.

• Cultivate meaningful lifelong connections with ASU alumni worldwide and design programs and signature events that keep alumni actively involved.
• Strengthen relationships with community leaders and the University System of Georgia to enhance financial support and public awareness.
• Support the Foundation Board with monthly progress reports, board member recruitment, training, and effective fundraising activities.
• Lead high‑level solicitation and fundraising activities with a proven combination of experience, strategic expertise, and personal character.

• Master’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, higher education administration, or related field.
• Minimum of eight years of progressive leadership experience in institutional advancement, fundraising, or foundation management, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sectors.

• Doctorate preferred.

• Approximately 20‑30% travel for donor engagement, fundraising events, and foundation‑related meetings.

• Proven success in securing major gifts and leading large‑scale fundraising campaigns.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in investment and endowment management.
• Exceptional relationship‑building and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strategic leadership with the ability to inspire and manage teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Certified Fund‑Raising Executive (CFRE) certification preferred.

Albany State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The University prohibits harassment and discrimination in accordance with federal and state law and University policy.

Interested candidates should apply online through ASU’s career site:
ASU Employment Opportunities
. Please include a cover letter highlighting your qualifications and vision for advancement, a current resume, and contact information for three professional references.