Advancement and Alumni Relations Coordinator

Duties:

Reporting to the Manager of Alumni and Donor Relations, The Advancement and Alumni Relations Coordinator will play a pivotal role in fostering relationships between the university and its alumni community. This position is responsible for the development, coordination, and execution of alumni programs, events, and communications to engage alumni in meaningful ways, strengthening their connection to Vancouver Island University (VIU) and supporting the universities strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities:
Alumni Engagement & Relationship Building:

• In collaboration with the Manager, Alumni and Donor Relations, develop and implement strategies to engage alumni through networking, events, and volunteer opportunities.
• Cultivate relationships with alumni to increase their involvement in VIU initiatives, programs, and philanthropic efforts.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for alumni inquiries, providing information and support as needed.

Event Coordination:

• Plan and coordinate alumni events.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless event logistics, including invitations, venue coordination, and post-event follow-up.
• Track event attendance and gather feedback to measure success and improve future engagements.

Communications & Outreach:

• Develop and maintain effective communication channels with alumni through newsletters, social media, and other digital platforms.
• Create engaging content that highlights alumni achievements, university news, and opportunities for alumni to get involved.
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to ensure alignment with VIU's brand and messaging.

Alumni Database Management:

• In collaboration with the Advancement Services Team, maintain and update the alumni database, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records of alumni contact information, participation, and engagement.
• Track and analyze alumni engagement data to identify trends and opportunities for deeper involvement.
• Work closely with the Philanthropic team to support alumni fundraising initiatives.

Alumni Program Development:

• Collaborate with university departments, such as Career Studio and Academic Faculties, to identify opportunities for alumni engagement that align with university priorities.
• Work closely with the businesses that support our alumni benefits program to establish new partnerships, while also promoting, monitoring, and updating the Alumni Perks app.

Volunteer Coordination:

• Recruit, train, and manage alumni volunteers for various roles, including event support, mentorship programs, and advisory boards.
• Recognize and celebrate alumni contributions through volunteer appreciation initiatives.

Other Duties as Assigned:

• Support other projects and initiatives within the External Relations team, including special events, strategic communications, and fundraising efforts.

Required Qualifications:

A postsecondary degree or a combination of relevant comparable skills and experience. Minimum three years' experience working in alumni relations, including marketing and communications, public event organization, and fund raising or business administration. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Not-for-profit or public sector experience.
• Proven experience in event management, including planning, coordinating, and executing a wide range of events.
• Key stakeholder and volunteer relations experience.
• Demonstrated experience in managing print and electronic communication projects.
• Ability to work with students, alumni, faculty, and board members.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong ability to take initiative and take independent action.
• Excellent organization and project management skills.
• Team player with proven experience working effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise considerable judgment and deal with staff and alumni with tact, diplomacy, and professionalism.
• Service oriented skills and abilities.
• Strong computer skills and knowledge of database research and maintenance, preferably with Raiser's Edge, NXT is considered an asset.
• MS Office experience with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint at an intermediate level.
• Valid Class 5 Drivers' License and a confirmed satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduate of VIU.
• Proven project management skills; creative, flexible, and possess a positive approach when working with a variety of people; ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work efficiently under deadline pressure; knowledge of social networking sites, as well as Raiser's Edge experience.
• Knowledge and experience with Alumni Perks software, Mailchimp, and Drupal 10 is considered an asset.

VIU is pleased to offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefit plan; ample paid holiday time; professional development opportunities and a desirable pension plan. As part of the VIU campus community, our employees work with supportive colleagues within an encouraging environment and are provided with the tools and training that promote learning and development. The perks of VIU employment are multiple, and include well-being initiatives and services, strategic discounts, and flexible work opportunities.

Note: 

• Short-listed candidates must provide original transcripts, or applicable original certifications at time of interview.
• All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
• Vancouver Island University (VIU) is collectively committed to building and sustaining a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment for faculty, staff, and students.  In our journey towards greater diversity, we invite applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of all gender identities and sexual orientations who bring value to the VIU community through their lived experiences.  We encourage members of all equity-seeking groups to self-identify within their application cover letter.  When a candidate voluntarily discloses this information in their cover letter, the information will be used only for the fulfillment of the career opportunity.  Disclosure and/or self-identification with an equity-seeking group will not lead to advantageous treatment of a candidate who is not qualified.

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