Summary

Under the direction of the Vice President/Executive Director of Alumni Relations, the Director provides administrative leadership for assigned alumni engagement programs, operations, communications, and partnerships within the Alumni Relations Office (ARO). Serves as a key advisor to senior leadership, a visible ambassador of the University, and a primary liaison between campus entities, the Alumni Association Board of Directors, UNM Foundation partners, government stakeholders, and external constituents. Manages staff, directs major engagement initiatives, and ensures effective operational and collaborative efforts that advance the mission of the University and the UNM Alumni Association. May act on behalf of the Vice President/Executive Director as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Provides strategic leadership in the planning, development, and implementation of alumni engagement strategies that align with the university's mission and priorities.
2. Collaborate with the Alumni Association Board of Directors and Alumni Relations staff to establish measurable goals, advance key initiatives, and monitor progress across engagement, philanthropy, and advocacy efforts.
3. Directs and evaluates the operational execution of programs, activities, and support functions to ensure efficiency and compliance.
4. Designs, establishes, and maintains an organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the organization's goals and objectives; oversees recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of unit staff and volunteers.
5. Oversees assigned budgets, financial reporting and processes, procurement activities, and resource management in accordance with university policies. Supports the negotiation of vendor agreements and ensures contracts are executed in compliance with institutional procurement regulations.
6. Leads and oversees Alumni engagement initiatives, events, digital communications, and content development. Ensures all alumni programming, marketing, and data practices comply with institutional policies, privacy standards, and relevant regulatory requirements.
7. Develops and sustains collaborative relationships and partnerships with colleges, departments, the UNM Foundation, regional alumni groups, vendors, external community organizations, and corporate partners.
8. Supports alumni advocacy, legislative engagement, and ambassador initiatives in coordination with the VP/Executive Director of Alumni Relations and leads and develops strategies that advance the university's priorities at the local, state, and national government levels.
9. Represents the ARO and the University at alumni and institutional events and serves as the primary liaison to Alumni Association committees, governance bodies, and the Alumni Association Board to ensure alignment and strengthen alumni engagement.
10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree; at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Strategic planning and organizational leadership.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Advanced communication and public speaking abilities.
• Knowledge of alumni engagement best practices and advancement models.
• Ability to manage complex budgets and operations.
• Understanding of higher education governance and institutional priorities.
• Demonstrated skill in board management, volunteer leadership, and governance structures.
• Experience with advocacy campaigns, governmental relations, or public policy.
• Demonstrated proficiency in strategic communications, marketing, and digital engagement.
• Demonstrated experience in higher education advancement or alumni engagement.
• Demonstrated experience in supporting governance structures, volunteer committees, or advisory boards.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• No or very limited physical effort required.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 05/01/2026