Director of Strategic Engagement and Partnerships

Position Classification: 

Regular, full-time, salaried, exempt and benefit-eligible staff position. For more benefit information visit Why Work at UCO? 

The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation is seeking a dynamic relationship builder to lead strategic engagement initiatives that connect alumni, donors, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and campus partners with the University's mission. 

The successful candidate is an energetic connector who enjoys bringing people together to solve problems, create opportunities, and strengthen communities. They are equally comfortable meeting with alumni, business leaders, nonprofit executives, faculty, students, and volunteers, and are motivated by building partnerships that make a lasting impact on student success and the future of Oklahoma. 

Position Overview: 

This position will develop innovative programs that strengthen student success, workforce development, volunteer engagement, and philanthropic support while advancing the Foundation's $75 million Momentum Campaign. This position exercises independent judgment and discretion in developing and implementing strategic initiatives that support the Foundation's mission. The incumbent is responsible for planning, prioritizing, and managing programs and partnerships, making recommendations on matters of significance, and working with minimal day-to-day supervision to advance institutional goals. 

Job Duties: 

• Develop and implement strategic alumni, non-profit, and community engagement initiatives. 

• Build partnerships with corporations, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and civic partners. 

• Expand alumni mentoring, volunteer opportunities, and career connections for students. 

• Collaborate with academic colleges and campus departments to create meaningful engagement opportunities. 

• Oversee scholarship stewardship, alumni programs, and strategic events through direct supervision of assigned staff. 

• Support corporate partnerships, sponsorships, and community engagement initiatives that advance the Momentum Campaign. 

• Measure program outcomes and recommend innovative strategies to increase engagement and philanthropic support. 

Qualifications/Experience Required: 

Bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of work experience in related field or equivalent combination of education and experience (education, professional experience, military service, and demonstrated leadership will be considered). 

Qualifications/Experience Preferred: 

• Experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, community engagement, workforce development, corporate partnerships, fundraising, or volunteer management. 

• Experience supervising employees or leading collaborative teams. 

• Familiarity with donor, alumni, or constituent relationship management systems is helpful but not required. 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

• Skilled at building relationships with community, nonprofit, corporate, alumni, and volunteer organizations. 

• Ability to lead projects, programs, and teams. 

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 

• Ability to build partnerships across diverse groups and stakeholders. 

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities. 

Physical Demands: 

Reasonable accommodations (in accordance with ADA requirements) may be made, upon request, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.