Deputy Director (0463U), University Development and Alumni Relations 86466

Deputy Director (0463U), University Development and Alumni Relations 86466

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty, and staff.

As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic, and social value.

We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with ourhttps://chancellor.berkeley.edu/guiding-values-and-principles,https://diversity.berkeley.edu/principles-community, and https://strategicplan.berkeley.edu/.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space forhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEjdp4CRjgg&t=3s (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can http://grow.berkeley.edu/ at UC Berkeley.

Departmental Overview

University Development and Alumni Relations (UDAR), increases support for and enhances knowledge of UC Berkeley through communications, public outreach, and fundraising. UDAR is responsible for fundraising and donor engagement, and works to strengthen unit development offices by consulting and partnering with campus fundraisers. UDAR also handles a range of central activities and services encompassing events, communications, stewardship, prospect development, gift management, database management, and more.

The Student Experience & Diversity (SED) Philanthropy program builds innovative philanthropic partnerships to ensure that belonging, discovery, and financial access are integral to every Berkeley student's education. The SED program primarily raises major gifts in support of student aid, co-curricular activities, and equity and inclusion. The team interfaces with a broad range of divisions and academic units on campus, and serves as the primary fundraising entity for the divisions of Equity & Inclusion, Undergraduate Education, and Student Affairs.

Position Summary

The Deputy Director brings a substantial degree of knowledge in the field of fundraising to lead advanced fundraising concepts by planning, soliciting, and implementing major gifts for priority fundraising areas for three divisions, Student Affairs, Equity & Inclusion, and Student Affairs. The position works alongside the executive director, managing SED's frontline fundraiser team, being a strategic thought partner, and representing SED with program and divisional partners. Expected to raise $2.5M+ individually; $12M+ as a team each year.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is June 10, 2026. For full consideration, please apply on or before the first review date.

Responsibilities

Philanthropy and Fundraising Management

Manages a staff of 3 (one current vacancy) fundraising professionals directly responsible for raising $12M+ a year.
Hires, trains, mentors, guides, and directs fundraising staff.
Sets fiscal year fundraising strategy and goals; measures progress regularly to ensure strategies are meeting expected goals.

Philanthropy and Individual Fundraising

Oversees and manages the identification, cultivation and solicitation of donors and donor prospects.
Serves as the co-lead fundraiser for the department alongside the Executive Director and manages an individual portfolio of 40-60 major gift level donors and prospects, raising a minimum of $2.5M/year.

Fundraising Strategic Program Management

Implements the SED priorities and leads thematic work plans.
Participates in short- and long-range strategic and campaign planning.
Manages a highly complex fundraising program serving three divisions.
Conceives, creates, develops, implements, evaluates and manages development programs and strategies to meet predetermined goals and objectives, ensuring predetermined goals are met.

Campus Advancement Leadership and Management

Responsible for fundraising for campus-wide priorities including scholarships, health services, basic needs, student advising, and more.
Co-leads the development efforts for three administrative divisions: Equity and Inclusion, Student Affairs and Undergraduate Education.
Represents SED in meetings and strategy sessions with program partners and campus leaders.

Required Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years of major gift fundraising experience.
Minimum of 5 years of experience demonstrating knowledge of a higher education institution, including vision, mission, goals, objectives, applicable policies, infrastructure, and current issues of concern.
Minimum of 3 years of experience applying management / leadership concepts, principles and best practices.
Leadership / management skills to select, train, mentor, evaluate and motivate staff.
Strong written, oral and interpersonal communications skills and political acumen to establish and maintain good working relationships within all organizational levels and with outside constituencies.
Strong skills to meet predetermined goals and objectives, including securing gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
Strong strategic planning skills and skills to conceive, design, implement, evaluate and manage fundraising programs and strategies.
Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Strong skills in persuasion / negotiation and strong marketing skills.
Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted annual salary that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $165,000.00 to $182,000.00. This is an exempt, monthly-paid position. This is a full-time (40 hours/week) Career position eligible for full UC benefits.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H-1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.
This position is eligible for up to 40% remote work within the United States. Exact arrangements are determined in partnership with your supervisor to meet role responsibilities and department needs and are subject to change.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH

https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000701/AbusiveConduct

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

#LI-RP1

To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/7200055

UC Berkeley Seeks Deputy Director to Lead Student Experience Philanthropy Efforts

Advancing Equity and Access Through Strategic Major Gift Fundraising

UC Berkeley Announces Key Leadership Opportunity in Student-Focused Philanthropy

The University of California, Berkeley continues to lead in higher education innovation, and its University Development and Alumni Relations (UDAR) division plays a central role in sustaining that excellence. A newly posted position for Deputy Director (0463U) within the Student Experience & Diversity (SED) Philanthropy program highlights the institution's commitment to securing resources for scholarships, equity initiatives, basic needs support, and student success programs. This role offers experienced fundraising professionals the chance to shape major gift strategies that directly impact thousands of students across three key administrative divisions.

Berkeley's UDAR team works collaboratively with campus partners to build lasting relationships with alumni, parents, and friends. The SED program specifically targets philanthropic partnerships that promote belonging, discovery, and financial access. With the higher education landscape evolving rapidly, positions like this Deputy Director role underscore how strategic leadership in development can drive meaningful outcomes for diverse student populations.

The Growing Importance of Specialized Development Roles in US Universities

University fundraising has transformed from traditional annual appeals into sophisticated, multi-year campaigns focused on major gifts. At institutions like UC Berkeley, development professionals manage portfolios of high-net-worth donors while aligning giving priorities with institutional goals such as student equity and inclusion. The Deputy Director position exemplifies this shift, requiring both hands-on solicitation expertise and team leadership to meet ambitious annual targets exceeding $12 million collectively.

Across American higher education, alumni relations and development offices have expanded to address rising costs and shifting donor expectations. Programs supporting undergraduate education, student affairs, and equity initiatives now rely heavily on private philanthropy to supplement public funding. This creates demand for leaders who can navigate complex stakeholder landscapes while delivering measurable results in donor engagement and gift closure.

Understanding the Student Experience & Diversity Philanthropy Program at Berkeley

The SED Philanthropy team serves as the primary fundraising arm for Equity & Inclusion, Undergraduate Education, and Student Affairs at UC Berkeley. It focuses on initiatives that remove barriers to success, including scholarships for underrepresented students, mental health resources, advising services, and co-curricular opportunities that foster belonging.

By partnering with academic and administrative units, the program ensures philanthropic investments align with campus-wide priorities. The Deputy Director will co-lead efforts alongside the Executive Director, contributing to thematic work plans and strategic campaign elements that address current challenges like basic needs insecurity and access to high-impact educational experiences.

Core Responsibilities of the Deputy Director Role

This leadership position involves direct management of a team of fundraising professionals, including hiring, training, and performance oversight. The Deputy Director sets annual fundraising strategies, tracks progress against goals, and ensures the team consistently achieves or exceeds targets through personalized donor cultivation and solicitation.

Individual portfolio management forms a key component, with responsibility for 40-60 major gift prospects and a personal annual fundraising goal of at least $2.5 million. The role also includes representing SED in cross-campus meetings, contributing to long-range planning, and developing innovative approaches to engage new donor segments in support of student-centered initiatives.

Strategic planning and goal setting for the SED fundraising program
Donor identification, cultivation, and stewardship at the major gift level
Team leadership and professional development for direct reports
Collaboration with divisional partners on priority projects
Evaluation and refinement of development strategies based on performance data

Required Expertise and Qualifications for Success

Candidates need at least five years of major gift fundraising experience, preferably within higher education settings. Demonstrated knowledge of university operations, including mission alignment, policy frameworks, and current issues facing students, is essential. Leadership experience of three or more years, including staff supervision and mentoring, prepares individuals to guide the team effectively.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills are critical for building trust with donors and campus colleagues alike. A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience provides the foundation, while proven ability to secure significant gifts and meet ambitious objectives distinguishes top applicants. The position supports up to 40% remote work, offering flexibility while maintaining connection to the vibrant Berkeley campus community.

Salary, Benefits, and Professional Growth at UC Berkeley

The budgeted salary range for this exempt, full-time career position is $165,000 to $182,000 annually. UC Berkeley offers comprehensive benefits through the University of California system, supporting work-life balance and long-term career development. Professional development opportunities, including dedicated time for growth activities, help staff advance their skills in a dynamic environment.

This role provides exposure to high-level strategic discussions and the chance to influence resource allocation for critical student support areas. Professionals seeking to deepen their impact in higher education philanthropy will find meaningful challenges and visible results in advancing equity and access initiatives.

Current Trends Shaping University Development and Alumni Relations

Philanthropy in US higher education increasingly emphasizes impact measurement, diversity in giving, and digital engagement strategies. Donors today seek transparency on how gifts translate into student outcomes, prompting development teams to adopt data-driven approaches and storytelling techniques that highlight real-world results.

Alumni relations efforts have broadened to include lifelong engagement beyond traditional reunion cycles. At leading institutions, integrated campaigns combine communications, events, and personalized outreach to sustain donor loyalty across generations. The SED program's focus on equity aligns with broader national conversations about access and belonging in college environments.

How This Opportunity Supports Broader Institutional Goals

Securing a strong leader for the Deputy Director position strengthens UC Berkeley's ability to meet rising demand for student support services. Philanthropic resources enable innovative programming that complements state funding and tuition revenue, directly benefiting the diverse student body that defines Berkeley's excellence.

The role contributes to campus-wide campaigns by ensuring SED priorities receive appropriate attention and funding. Successful fundraising in this area reinforces Berkeley's reputation as a public institution committed to social mobility and inclusive excellence, attracting further support from mission-aligned donors.

Application Process and Next Steps for Interested Candidates

Applications are currently under review, with first consideration given to those submitted by June 10, 2026. Interested professionals should prepare a tailored resume and cover letter highlighting relevant fundraising achievements, leadership experience, and alignment with student success priorities.

The position is posted through official University of California channels. Applicants can access the full details and submit materials via the provided application portal. Background checks and misconduct disclosure requirements apply as standard for positions of this responsibility.

Apply directly through the official posting. For additional context on similar opportunities, explore resources on academic career pathways in higher education administration.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Fundraising Leadership in Higher Education

As universities navigate economic pressures and evolving donor landscapes, roles like the Deputy Director at Berkeley represent critical investments in institutional sustainability. Future leaders will increasingly blend traditional relationship-building with technology-enabled prospecting and impact reporting.

UC Berkeley's emphasis on equity and student experience positions this opportunity at the forefront of progressive philanthropy. Professionals who thrive in collaborative, mission-driven environments will find this role offers both immediate impact and long-term career advancement within one of the nation's premier public research universities.

Frequently Asked Questions

🎯What does the Deputy Director role entail at UC Berkeley?

The position involves leading a team of fundraisers, managing a personal portfolio of major gift donors, and co-leading philanthropy efforts for Equity & Inclusion, Undergraduate Education, and Student Affairs divisions. Responsibilities include strategy development, staff mentorship, and achieving collective annual goals exceeding $12 million.

💰What salary range is offered for this Deputy Director position?

The budgeted annual salary range is $165,000 to $182,000 for this full-time exempt career role, which includes comprehensive University of California benefits and eligibility for professional development time.

Deputy Director (0463U), University Development and Alumni Relations 86466

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA, USA