The Senior Manager of Giving Societies builds communities of generosity around Purdue priorities. In this role, you will be responsible for the strategic oversight, growth, and stewardship of Purdue University’s recognition societies, including the President’s Council, R.B. Stewart Society, and other organized donor groups such as parents and corporate partners. This role leads the development and execution of engagement strategies to deepen donor relationships, enhance the donor experience, and increase philanthropic support at leadership-giving levels. Within the Purdue for Life Foundation, the Senior Manager collaborates closely with development colleagues, campus partners, and advisory boards to ensure a cohesive, impactful donor engagement program.
The Senior Manager supervises the Senior Specialist of Giving Societies and will also partner with academic units to support the development and long-term management of advisory councils.
Giving Society Strategy & Growth - Own the vision, evolution, and impact of Purdue’s recognition societies and organized donor communities.
- Provide strategic direction and day-to-day management of the President’s Council and R.B. Stewart Society, ensuring alignment with university fundraising priorities.
- Identify, analyze, and align on additional opportunities to support organized donor groups and create additional giving societies for groups such as parents and corporate partners.
- Analyze donor data and trends to inform strategy, measure effectiveness, and identify opportunities for growth.
Donor Engagement, Stewardship & Experience - Create meaningful experiences that deepen donor relationships and inspire increased philanthropic support.
- Design and implement comprehensive stewardship and engagement plans to retain, upgrade, and recognize leadership-level donors.
- Collaborate with PFLF Special Events to oversee the planning and execution of high-impact events and experiences for giving society members, including exclusive campus engagements and recognition opportunities.
- Create strategic communication plans for giving societies, including personalized outreach, impact reporting, and recognition materials.
- Collaborate with the PFLF Marketing and Communications team to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all giving society initiatives.
Volunteer Leadership & Strategic Partnerships - Strengthen connections between donors, volunteers, academic partners, and university priorities.
- Serve as a key liaison between the Purdue for Life Foundation and university leadership, ensuring alignment and visibility of giving society efforts.
- In partnership with academic units, provide guidance and support for the development, engagement, and long-term management of advisory councils; establish best practices that align volunteer leadership engagement with philanthropic strategy.
Program Leadership & Operational Excellence - Lead the people, processes, and infrastructure required to execute and scale.
- Supervise and provide direction to the Senior Specialist, Giving Societies, including goal setting, performance management, and professional development.
- Delegate and oversee the execution of operational and programmatic components of giving society activities, ensuring high-quality delivery and consistency.
