Director, Partner Engagement

Company Description

Are you a high-performer who wants to contribute to a mission-driven and values-based organization? If you are motivated by doing impactful work and making a difference in people’s lives, then the Indiana University Foundation (IUF) is the place for you. At the IUF, we believe in making the dream of higher education attainable, providing support for life-changing research, and preparing the next generation of leaders.    

As a trailblazer among our peers, we provide fundraising leadership and endowment stewardship to support needs and initiatives across all of Indiana University’s campuses. As part of our team, you will help make IU donor’s dreams last forever.   

At the IUF we work hard, celebrate achievements, and foster an environment where everyone’s contributions matter. We are nimble and innovative, and we want you to bring your ideas and energy to join forces with some of the best talent in our industry.  

In addition to being part of a meaningful mission as an IUF employee, you’ll find there are many ways to connect and collaborate. Our diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives ensure that our colleagues are celebrated for who they are and have a voice. Our FUNdation (see what we did there?) committee helps us connect and unwind with food truck lunches, holiday gatherings, costume contests, free snacks, IU spirit-wear Fridays, and spontaneous gestures that surprise and delight. Our Wellness Committee ensures that the health and well-being of our employees is top of mind, offering yoga, a lunchtime walking group, meditation breaks, the Headspace app, and topical workshops. We encourage community leadership and service and make space for our staff to pursue their passions. Our total rewards philosophy ensures that we support employees financially, emotionally, and in their career growth.   

If the IUF sounds like a fit for you, we invite you to join us today.

Job Description

Are you an innovative leader with a passion for operational excellence and mission-driven work? The Indiana University Foundation is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Partner Engagement to lead our inaugural Advancement Resources and Liaison Operations (ARLO) team. In this pivotal new role, you’ll shape the strategic direction of ARLO while building a culture grounded in collaboration, continuous improvement, and service. If you're excited by the opportunity to be a central connector and knowledge hub for the IU Advancement community, this is the role for you.

As the Director, you’ll oversee a talented team of mission-driven individuals leading innovations in services by streamlining workflows, establishing efficient policies and procedures, and enhancing partner satisfaction. You'll be instrumental in elevating the Foundation’s operational effectiveness, providing strategic oversight, and ensuring ARLO is aligned with the broader goals of Advancement Services and the IU Foundation. This role requires a highly collaborative leader who thrives working cross-functionally and who can translate strategic vision into high-impact results.

You’ll join the Advancement Services team where your work will directly support Indiana University’s mission by empowering IU Advancement colleagues with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed. If you are energized by leading through change, cultivating relationships, and driving continuous improvement to further a mission that transforms lives through education, we encourage you to apply today!

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated advanced functional and technical knowledge of advancement operations, policies, and procedures.  
• Excellent leadership, management, and team-building skills.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.  
• Proficiency in relevant software and systems, including CRM and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required in a related discipline including but not limited to:  Business, Communication or Public Relations.
• 5 years’ experience in relationship management, communication, or strategic operational management required.
• 2 years’ experience in a people leadership or program management capacity required.
• Combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Additional Information

This is an onsite position based in our Bloomington, Indiana office.

Applications will be accepted through at least July 13th, 2025. A cover letter is reco