Director of Alumni Relations

Career Opportunity: Lead Alumni Engagement at Aston University

Aston University, renowned for its commitment to inclusivity, entrepreneurship, and transformational impact, is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to spearhead its alumni engagement efforts. This pivotal role is integral to Aston's ambitious 2030 strategy, aiming to solidify its position as a leading institution in science, technology, and enterprise. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for fostering strong community ties and driving institutional growth, this opportunity might be the perfect next step in your career.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Director of Business Development and Advancement, this position will be responsible for all facets of alumni engagement. Beyond cultivating relationships, the role holder will play a crucial part in achieving wider strategic objectives. This includes:

• Enhancing Aston's reputation and global reach to support student recruitment initiatives.
• Connecting alumni with valuable opportunities for further academic and professional development.
• Collaborating closely with the Director of Development to foster philanthropic support from the alumni community.

Key Advantages for Candidates

This role presents a unique opportunity for professionals looking to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking higher education institution. Potential candidates can expect:

• Strategic Leadership: The chance to shape and execute a comprehensive alumni engagement strategy aligned with Aston's ambitious vision.
• Transformational Impact: The ability to directly contribute to the university's growth, reputation, and its positive influence on students, businesses, and communities.
• Holistic Development: An environment that supports lifelong learning and professional growth, offering excellent training and development opportunities.
• Work-Life Balance: A commitment to employee well-being is evident through a generous annual leave scheme (30 days plus bank holidays/closure days), family-friendly policies, and the potential for hybrid working arrangements.
• Vibrant Location & Amenities: Situated in the heart of Birmingham city centre with excellent transport links, the role also offers access to on-site gym and pool facilities with discounted staff membership.

Essential Considerations for Aspiring Candidates

To thrive in this role, candidates will need a robust background and a clear understanding of how alumni engagement drives institutional success. Essential qualifications and experience include:

• Significant Senior Alumni Relations Experience: A proven track record in a senior alumni relations role or a comparable position.
• Demonstrated Success: A history of successfully aligning alumni engagement with tangible outcomes, such as enhanced student recruitment, increased lifelong learning participation, or successful philanthropic contributions.
• Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with the UK higher education sector and an understanding of current trends in alumni and stakeholder engagement are highly advantageous.
• Strategic Planning & Performance Management: Strong strategic planning capabilities and experience working with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are crucial.
• Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage high-performing teams effectively.

This position offers a competitive salary of £58,225 to £67,468 per annum, reflecting the seniority and impact of the role. If you are driven by a desire to foster lasting connections and contribute to the transformative journey of Aston University, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.