JOB SUMMARY
JOB SUMMARY
The Development Director plays a pivotal role in advancing the institution's
fundraising efforts and fostering relationships with alumni, donors, and other
key stakeholders. Reporting to the Vice President of Enrollment and
Advancement, this position oversees the planning and execution of
comprehensive development initiatives to support the university's mission,
vision, and priorities. The Development Director is responsible for
cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts, while also managing
alumni engagement strategies to enhance lifelong connections with the
university community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Plan and implement a comprehensive fundraising program that aligns with
annual and long-term institutional goals.
Manage a personal portfolio of major gift prospects, guiding them through
the donor lifecycle from identification to stewardship.
Develop compelling proposals and case statements in partnership with
academic and administrative leaders.
Coordinate donor stewardship and recognition programs to ensure meaningful
and consistent engagement.
Organize and lead cultivation and fundraising events designed to deepen
donor relationships and expand the base of support.
Analyze donor data to evaluate fundraising effectiveness and guide future
strategy.
Collaborate with university leadership and the development team to
prioritize funding needs and ensure alignment with strategic initiatives.
Oversee the development budget and allocate resources effectively to
maximize impact.
Provide leadership and direction for university alumni relations
strategies, ensuring strong engagement and pipeline development.
Supervise and support the Assistant to the Office of Development and
Curator and the Development Coordinator.
Foster a collaborative, goal-oriented team environment with a focus on
accountability, communication, and professional development.
Ensure timely and efficient execution of office operations, donor
communications, and event planning.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Demonstrated success in securing major gifts from individuals,
corporations, and foundations.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor staff to
achieve fundraising goals.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to
effectively engage and inspire diverse constituencies.
Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement comprehensive
fundraising plans.
Knowledge of fundraising best practices, including moves management, donor
stewardship, and gift acceptance policies.
Experience with fundraising databases and prospect research tools.
Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across departments and
functions to achieve shared goals.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree preferred.
Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in
fundraising, preferably in higher education or a related nonprofit
environment.
Ability to coordinate and negotiate.
Excellent interpersonal skills both written and oral.
Demonstrated presentation ability.
