Director of Stewardship

Overview Posting Details Posting Number: S15117P Working Title: Director of Stewardship Department: DAR-Donor Engage & Steward About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state's flagship university. UGA is ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The main campus is in Athens, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. Enrollment exceeds 41,000 students (over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate/professional students). Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including the School of Medicine. About the College/Unit/Department: The Office of Donor Relations and Stewardship turns donors into loyal supporters through stewardship and engagement. We foster deeper relationships by demonstrating appreciation for the impact donors are making in the lives of our students, faculty, and community. Our stewardship plan enriches the donor experience, instilling trust and securing ongoing support and lifelong engagement. College/Unit/Department website: Posting Type: External Retirement Plan: TRS or ORP Employment Type: Employee | Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible | Full/Part time: Full Time Work Schedule: 8:00am-5:00pm; Must be willing and able to work evenings and weekends, as necessary. Advertised Salary: $88,000+ Commensurate with qualifications and experience Posting Date: 05/07/2026 | Open until filled: Yes | Proposed Starting Date: 07/01/2026 Special Instructions to Applicants This position is structured as a permanent position within the Division of Development & Alumni Relations. We are unable to sponsor a work visa for this position. Location of Vacancy: Athens Area EEO Policy Statement: The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status. Accommodations are available; contact Central HR (View email address on click.appcast.io). USG Core Values Statement: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. More details in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02; Freedom of Expression per Board Policy 06.05. Position Information Classification Title: Donor Relations Manager FLSA: Exempt FTE: 1.00 Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor\'s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience, including 3 years of supervisory experience. Preferred Qualifications: Advanced degree preferred or bachelor\'s degree and 10 years of related higher education experience; or equivalent Higher education donor relations experience preferred Ability to establish trust and build relationships with faculty/staff Ability to respond to donors\' needs and concerns professionally Ability to generate creative ideas for donor stewardship and recognition Position Summary: The Director of Stewardship serves as the senior leader for the stewardship function within DAR and acts as the primary strategic partner to the Senior Director of Donor Relations and Stewardship. This role provides vision, leadership, and execution for all stewardship and recognition efforts to ensure meaningful, personalized donor experiences aligned with fundraising priorities. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies: Self-starter with strong motivation Personnel management and team leadership Collaborative, team-based approach Excellent writing, strong verbal communication Problem solving with prioritization and flexibility Strong organizational and multi-project management capabilities Analytical with ability to meet deadlines Ability to maintain confidentiality Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) Additional Division Expectations: Open, respectful communication and a healthy work environment Adherence to CASE standards and industry fundraising reporting standards Physical Demands: Office environment; some evenings/weekends; travel as necessary; computer use; multi-tasking. Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? Yes Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Security and Background: Must pass background check; pre-employment drug test if applicable; credit check for positions with financial responsibilities. Location: Athens Area Duties/Responsibilities Leadership and Management Serve as the senior leader for all stewardship initiatives with strategic direction and oversight Advise the Senior Director on donor engagement strategy Supervise and develop stewardship staff Oversee workflows, timelines, and quality control across programs Modernize stewardship practices using data and technology Oversee traditional stewardship activities including Presidents Club, Presidential Acknowledgements, Tribute Notifications, and various reporting and recognition initiatives Percentage of time: 60 Team Stewardship and Collaboration Provide leadership for Team Stewardship and cross-campus collaboration Facilitate quarterly Team Stewardship meetings Align stewardship practices university-wide Percentage of time: 15 Cumulative Giving Societies Leadership (CGS) Lead CGS programs and recognition Expand recognition strategies and donor experiences Align CGS stewardship with fundraising goals Percentage of time: 15 Support and Administration Coordinate quarterly meetings and logistics for DAR staff Represent Senior Director in absence and provide guidance Support donor relations and stewardship opportunities as needed Percentage of time: 10 #J-18808-Ljbffr