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. The active work toward reconciliation takes place in all corners of Renison’s campus through research, learning, teaching, community building, and outreach. 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. These priorities build on Renison’s distinctive educational strengths and longstanding commitment to student success and well-being, experiential learning, and community partnerships.

The Director will 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.

• Lead the planning and execution of fundraising strategies in support of the One Renison Campaign and other institutional priorities.
• 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.
• Build and lead a high-performing advancement team, overseeing the development of campaign communications, stewardship programs, and related fundraising activities.
• Ensure effective systems for donor management, tracking, analysis, and reporting.
• Serve as a key ambassador for Renison, 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. They will be an exceptional relationship builder, communicator, and team leader, demonstrating sound judgment, professionalism, adaptability, and the ability to inspire confidence among donors, volunteers, colleagues, and institutional stakeholders.

This posting is for a newly created position. The expected compensation range is $130,000-$160,000 plus a suite of competitive benefits. References will be solicited at a later stage in the process as needed and with permission. Additionally, the successful candidate will be asked their consent to complete an educational and criminal records verification.

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.