Application Guide

How to Apply for Director of Corporate Relations

at American College of Rheumatology

🏢 About American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) is a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing rheumatology through research, education, and advocacy. Working here means contributing to improving the lives of patients with rheumatic diseases, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. ACR offers a remote-first culture and the opportunity to work with top experts in the field.

About This Role

As Director of Corporate Relations, you will drive significant revenue by managing a portfolio of major corporate donors and securing gifts from $200K to $2M. Your work directly funds critical research and education programs, making a tangible impact on patient care. This role is pivotal in strengthening ACR’s partnerships with pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

💡 A Day in the Life

Start your day by reviewing donor portfolios and prioritizing outreach to C-suite contacts. You might spend the morning on a virtual meeting with a biotech VP to discuss a $500K partnership, followed by collaborating with the education team to align funding with a new conference. Afternoon could involve drafting a grant proposal for a corporate foundation and updating Raiser’s Edge with donor interactions.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who American College of Rheumatology Is Looking For

  • Proven track record of securing $1M+ gifts from C-suite and community relations donors, preferably in healthcare or medical associations.
  • 8+ years of major gift fundraising experience with a BA/BS, or equivalent advanced degree with 5 years’ experience.
  • Deep understanding of the pharmaceutical and biotech landscape, including corporate giving structures and compliance.
  • Advanced proficiency in Raiser’s Edge and Microsoft Office, with ability to analyze donor data to inform strategy.

📝 Tips for Applying to American College of Rheumatology

1

Tailor your resume to highlight quantifiable results from securing $1M+ gifts, including specific donor names and partnership outcomes.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your experience with pharmaceutical or biotech corporate donors and how you’ve navigated compliance.

3

Demonstrate knowledge of ACR’s mission by referencing recent initiatives like the Rheumatology Research Foundation or advocacy campaigns.

4

If you have experience with matching gift programs or corporate foundation grants, detail that in your application.

5

Use the remote work aspect to your advantage by emphasizing your ability to self-manage and collaborate virtually with internal teams.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your ability to cultivate and close major gifts ($200K+) from corporate donors, especially in pharma/biotech.', 'Specific examples of building long-term partnerships that align donor interests with organizational priorities.', 'Familiarity with ACR’s work and how your fundraising can directly support research and education in rheumatology.', 'Strategic thinking in developing corporate engagement strategies, including matching gifts and grant proposals.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review ACR’s recent annual report and strategic plan to understand funding priorities and key initiatives.
  • → Research ACR’s current corporate partners and their engagement levels (e.g., Gold, Silver levels).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the Rheumatology Research Foundation and its role within ACR.
  • → Understand the regulatory environment for pharma donations, including PhRMA guidelines and compliance issues.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you secured a $1M+ gift from a corporate donor; what was your strategy and outcome?
2 How would you approach identifying and cultivating new corporate prospects in the pharmaceutical industry?
3 Explain how you would collaborate with internal teams (e.g., education, research) to create compelling funding opportunities.
4 What experience do you have with Raiser’s Edge, and how have you used data to drive donor engagement?
5 How would you manage a portfolio of 20-30 major corporate donors while also prospecting for new ones?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t submit a generic cover letter; failing to mention ACR’s specific mission or recent programs shows lack of interest.
  • Avoid overemphasizing individual donor experience; this role is exclusively corporate, so focus on corporate partnerships.
  • Don’t neglect to address the remote work aspect; ensure you highlight self-discipline and virtual collaboration skills.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

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Good luck with your application to American College of Rheumatology!

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