Manager of Program Communications and Chapters (PDF)

1. Summary of Duties: The Manager of Program Communications and Chapters is responsible for developing communications that grow Alumni Association program awareness and participation including marketing planning and execution for Alumni Weekend and Homecoming. This role is also responsible for engaging increasing numbers of alumni through the planning and execution of out-of-state alumni strategies and chapter programs as well as Alumni Association visibility and presence at post season athletic events.
   
   
2. This position reports to: The Director of Alumni Programs, UConn Alumni Association
   
   
3. This position is funded by: The University of Connecticut Alumni Association. The individual is an employee of the Alumni Association.
   
   
4. Specific Duties:
   
   1. Understand the Alumni Association’s strategies and develop and implement plans for program communications and out-of-state alumni/chapters that are designed to cultivate, maintain and strengthen alumni ties to the University including programs which feature University administration, faculty and distinguished alumni as well as social and cultural activities.
   2. Provide guidance, creative input and editing support to program staff to enhance the quality and effectiveness of the marketing for Alumni Weekend, Homecoming and Awards Celebration.
   3. Act as consultant to program staff in the development and execution of other event/program communications to increase program awareness, expand event participation and enhance alumni/student experience including brochures, event modules, flyers, signage and press releases.
   4. Serve as the liaison between the Alumni Association and out-of-state chapters providing recommendations and support to help chapters develop and implement a schedule of attractive and diverse programs aimed at increasing alumni engagement and growing membership in the Alumni Association. These programs should include, but are not limited to, educational/lifelong learning events, young alumni programs and career networking programs as well as participating in/leveraging the programs and services offered by the Alumni Association.
   5. Assist out-of-state chapter leaders by providing the tools, training and support needed to successfully plan and execute events and initiatives, by sharing best practices and by facilitating opportunities to collaborate with other campus and alumni groups. Monitor budgets. Develop an annual out-of-state travel plan to meet with and/or speak frequently with groups to build participation across a broad number of areas e.g. membership drives, alumni weekend committees, scholarship and annual fund support.
   6. Provide marketing communications support for out-of-state chapter programs to expand alumni participation and engagement; includes posting events on Association’s online community and Association calendars and website, coordinating e-mail and direct mail invitations, managing follow up communications after events, and coordinating event registration and maintaining event records.
   7. Coordinate logistics and promote Alumni Association visibility and presence at athletic post season events to deliver both a positive experience for alumni and fans on-site as well as for those who cannot attend in person but want to be part of the excitement.
   8. Help develop and implement volunteer training. Identify virtual/on-line volunteer opportunities to increase out-of-state volunteer engagement.
   9. Establish and monitor annual operating budget for all related programs; staying on budget while ensuring good return on investment and maximizing the alumni experience.
   10. Other duties as assigned.
       
       
5. Qualifications:
   
   Minimum
   
   1. BA/BS Degree
   2. 6+ years of experience working in alumni relations, higher education or marketing/communications.
   3. An understanding and enthusiasm for the mission of the university and the Alumni Association.
   4. Superior interpersonal, written and oral communication skills, including the ability to listen, learn and respond flexibly and positively in difficult circumstances.
   5. Experience using web, e-mail communications, social media and managing print and creative vendors.
   6. Experience in managing, engaging, motivating volunteers.
   7. Ability to remain focused on multiple priorities and work collaboratively with staff and colleagues from across the university to meet strategic goals.
   8. A strong work ethic, a sense of commitment, personal initiative, “can-do” attitude and good judgment skills are integral to this role.
   9. Ability to remain flexible in a fast paced and complex organizational environment.
   10. Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, and travel to attend and manage alumni events.
       
       
   Preferred
   1. Understanding of alumni relations and non-profit board governance.
   2. Budget management experience.
   3. Event planning experience.