External Relations Technology Director

The External Relations Technology Director serves as a business partner to leaders and staff within the Department of Development’s External Relations vertical to accelerate digital transformation of philanthropic marketing and communication functions to achieve shared business strategies. Partners closely with centralized Department of Development Technology Services team to build a blueprint and multiyear roadmap for a best-in-class, integrated External Relations technology ecosystem that aligns with department-wide and enterprise technology initiatives. Is responsible for creating and implementing operational plans that leverage both internal and external resources to enable sustainable, scalable growth and ongoing innovation through the External Relations technology stack.

Convenes External Relations stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of business needs and how these functions contribute to a best-in-class benefactor experience. Straddles both business subject matter expert and technology expert to deliver architectures, data flows and recommendations. Serves as a vital bridge between External Relations and Development Technology Services to define technology business requirements, strategic and operational implications, project execution plans and evaluation models. In some instances, provides hands-on management of select systems.

Maintains deep understanding of Development and External Relations business strategy and evolving technology landscape to optimize current technology, recommend future-focused investments and increase staff readiness / adoption. Provides problem-solving and subject matter expertise on how to leverage technology to deepen engagement with benefactor audiences and to increase efficiency and effectiveness of department team members. Leads change management approaches and staff education and training. Advances a culture where technology enables team members to thrive and contribute at the top of their roles.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible and accountable for the vision, strategy and execution of the External Relations technology stack to bridge business and technology requirements and ensure usability, accessibility and performance.

Work with internal and external business partners, as well as platform- and data-specific architects, to design complex cross-channel solutions that involve the integration of various technology platforms.

Make compelling business cases to leaders and stakeholders to implement innovative technology strategies and optimize existing tools.

Ensure alignment and coordination with department and enterprise technology strategies.

Advance a culture of excellence through data-driven decisions, continuous improvement and oversight of relevant policies, procedures and guidelines.

Apply human-centered design to improve the experiences of key audiences including, but not limited to, benefactors and prospective benefactors, External Relations team members and frontline fundraisers.