Job Title: Director of Alumni Relations
Department: University Advancement
Location: Karachi, Pakistan
Reports To: Chief Advancement Officer
Introduction:
The Aga Khan University is a pioneering institution of higher education whose mission is to improve the quality of life in the developing world and beyond, through world-class teaching, research, and healthcare delivery. AKU educates students for local and global leadership from campuses and teaching hospitals in six countries, primarily in Asia and Africa and generates new knowledge to solve problems that affect millions of people, especially the most vulnerable. The University is a private, not-for-profit institution and part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) (https://the.akdn/en/home).
AKU is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and aims to adopt appropriate standards for safeguarding and promoting a respectful relationship with and between all faculty, staff, trainees, volunteers, beneficiaries, wider communities, and other stakeholders with whom it works, including children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees/trainees and partners to share this commitment.
Position Overview:
AKU is seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Alumni Relations to lead and manage the strategic initiatives of the University’s alumni engagement program globally. The Director will be responsible for, building and maintaining strong relationships with alumni of 6 campuses, based in Pakistan, East Africa and the UK, fostering a sense of community, and enhancing engagement to support the long-term success and goals of the institution. This leadership role involves creating innovative programs, driving alumni participation, and collaborating closely with key stakeholders across the university.
Key Responsibilities:
- Alumni Engagement Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive alumni relations strategy to increase alumni involvement and support for the university. Lead efforts to enhance alumni engagement through alumni chapters, events, communications, and volunteer opportunities.
- Program Development: Oversee the planning and implementation of alumni programs and events, including reunions, networking opportunities, career services, regional chapters, and special interest groups.
- Communications: Collaborate with the communications team to create engaging content for alumni newsletters, social media, and other channels to foster a vibrant alumni community. Ensure effective messaging that strengthens the connection between alumni and the university.
- Fundraising and Development: Partner with the University Advancement team to cultivate alumni giving, support annual fundraising campaigns, and assist in identifying potential major gift prospects. Promote a culture of philanthropy among alumni.
- Alumni Data Management: Work with the Advancement Services team to maintain accurate alumni records, track engagement metrics, and utilize data to guide strategy and improve alumni participation and donor relations.
- Leadership and Collaboration: Supervise a dedicated team of alumni relations professionals, provide mentorship and professional development opportunities, and collaborate closely with faculty, staff, and senior leadership to integrate alumni engagement across university initiatives.
- Event Planning and Execution: Lead large-scale events such as alumni weekends, reunions, and donor recognition activities, ensuring high levels of alumni involvement and satisfaction.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in alumni relations, university advancement, or related fields, with a proven track record of successful leadership and program management.
- Strong understanding of alumni engagement best practices and fundraising strategies.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to connect with diverse alumni and university constituents.
- Ability to lead and motivate a team, manage multiple projects, and work collaboratively with various stakeholders.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work with confidential information and maintain discretion.
- Experience with database management and alumni relations software is preferred.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in developing digital engagement strategies (e.g., virtual events, social media outreach).
- Proven success in alumni giving programs and major gift cultivation.
- Knowledge of current trends in higher education, alumni relations, and nonprofit management.
- Ability to represent the university at events, both locally and nationally, and act as an ambassador for the institution.Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted.
