Experienced Administrative Assistant - Principal Gifts: Supporting Fundraising Efforts and Donor Relations at Cornell University

Join the Team at Cornell University's Alumni Affairs and Development

Cornell University's Alumni Affairs and Development team is at the forefront of higher education advancement, fostering lifelong engagement and philanthropy among friends and families. By joining our dynamic team, you'll have the chance to be part of something big, creating a lasting legacy that shapes the future of education. We're seeking an organized, detail-oriented individual with a passion for providing top-tier administrative support to join our Principal Gifts Office as an Administrative Assistant.

The Opportunity

As an Administrative Assistant with Principal Gifts, you will serve as a liaison between our Principal Gifts Officers (PGOs) and Principal Gifts Associates (PGAs) and the wider Cornell community, including alumni, donors, faculty, and university leadership. You will play a crucial role in supporting our fundraising efforts by ensuring seamless communication, meeting coordination, and event planning. Your attention to detail, discretion, and ability to manage multiple tasks will help advance the university's ambitious development goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administrative Support: Manage complex calendars, arrange meetings, and prepare confidential materials for Principal Gifts Officers. Draft correspondence and reports, and complete any other administrative tasks needed to support their fundraising engagement with donors and collaboration with colleagues.
• Data Management: Maintain and update donor information in PeopleSoft and other systems. Assist with the preparation of reports and manage internal solicitation review processes.
• Travel Planning & Budget Management: Arrange cost-effective and efficient travel for the PGOs you support. Prepare itineraries, track expenses, and process reimbursements.
• Customer Service & Event Support: Provide top-notch customer service to donors and high-level volunteers. Assist in planning and implementing donor events such as receptions, lectures, and dinners. Collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure seamless event logistics.
• Professional Development: Stay current on new technologies, processes, and university policies relevant to your role. Participate in team meetings and offer suggestions to further department goals.

What We Need

Essential Qualifications:

• Education: Associate's degree and 2 to 4 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
• Judgment and Follow-through: Must be able to exercise sound judgment, timely and appropriate follow-through, and independent proactive thinking in supporting senior development officers who travel frequently.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
• Organizational Skills: Detail-oriented with demonstrated ability and organizational skills to establish priorities, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Confidentiality: Discreet with a proven track-record of handling highly sensitive and confidential information.
• Computer Skills: Strong computer skills and experience working with word processing, spreadsheets, and databases, including PeopleSoft, Perceptive Content, Tableau, OBIEE, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree or the equivalent in educational training and experience would be beneficial.
• Administrative Experience: Five or more years of administrative office experience in higher education, industry, or government.
• Experience with Alumni Affairs and Development Systems: Experience working with Alumni Affairs and Development informational systems would also be beneficial.
• Supporting High-Level Professionals: Experience supporting high-level professionals.

Rewards and Benefits

Cornell University offers a range of benefits and rewards, including:

• Competitive Salary: A competitive salary range of $25.52 - $29.66 per hour.
• Hybrid Work Arrangement: Eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, with the opportunity to work remotely 3 days per week and on-campus 2 days per week.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
• Leave Provisions: Health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation, and 13 holidays.
• Educational Benefits: Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.

Why Join Us?

At Cornell University, we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We're committed to creating a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff from all identities and backgrounds. As an employee, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to a larger purpose, advancing the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

How to Apply

If you're excited about this opportunity and believe in the power of education and community, we encourage you to apply with your resume and cover letter. Join us and help shape the future of Cornell University!

Apply now and let's discuss how you can become a vital part of our success story.