Director, Advancement and Alumni Engagement

Renison University College acknowledges that it is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Hodinohsyó:ni, and Attawandaran (Neutral) Peoples. Established in 1959 as an affiliated institution of the University of Waterloo, Renison offers a distinctive, close-knit community where students live, learn, and grow. Guided by its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan, Meeting the Moment, Renison is focused on nurturing transformative student leaders; advancing Indigenization, decolonization, inclusion, diversity and equity; fostering a strong and healthy community; strengthening teaching, research and learning; and advancing institutional sustainability.

Renison University College invites applications and nominations for the position of inaugural Director, Advancement and Alumni Engagement to lead its advancement strategy and build the philanthropic partnerships that will shape the institution's future. Reporting to the President and Vice-Chancellor and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Director will provide strategic leadership for fundraising, alumni engagement, donor relations, and campaign development.

A central priority will be advancing the One Renison Capital Campaign, an ambitious initiative to expand residence capacity while modernizing essential campus infrastructure to create safe and welcoming student housing, strengthen long-term financial sustainability, and enhance the Renison experience for generations to come.

This highly visible role will lead the planning and execution of fundraising strategies in support of the One Renison Campaign and other institutional priorities. The Director will strengthen the major gift pipeline, cultivate and steward connections with donors, develop compelling fundraising strategies, and support the recruitment and mobilization of campaign volunteers and volunteer leaders.

The Director will also build and lead a high-performing advancement team, overseeing the development of campaign communications, stewardship programs, and related fundraising activities, while ensuring effective systems for donor management, tracking, analysis, and reporting. Serving as a key ambassador for Renison, the Director will build confidence among donors, alumni, volunteers, community partners, and institutional stakeholders, helping to foster a culture of philanthropy that advances Renison's mission and long-term sustainability.

The successful candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree, with a master’s degree considered an asset, and a CFRE designation preferred. They will bring significant, progressive experience in fundraising and advancement, including major gifts, legacy giving, donor stewardship, foundation relations, and campaign leadership, ideally within the post-secondary sector. A strategic and results-oriented leader, they will possess a strong understanding of donor strategy and pipeline development with the ability to translate vision into action.

Renison University College respects, appreciates, and actively encourages diversity. As part of Renison’s commitment to equity within the College, it welcomes and encourages applications from all qualified individuals with diverse experiences based on race, ethnic origin, religion, age, colour, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, ability or disability, including women, 2SLGBTQ, Indigenous Peoples, and other visible minorities. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. Renison is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in the hiring process.