Director of Development

The primary duty of the Director of Development (DOD) is to bring in major gifts (gifts of $25,000 or more) by identifying, cultivating, and soliciting prospects for major gifts on behalf of an assigned area(s). The DOD works closely with University administration and appropriate faculty to cultivate potential donors. The DOD exercises discretion and independent judgment in determining which donors and prospects in their prospect pool (consisting of alumni, friends, parents, businesses, foundations, and organizations) to approach based on prospect research, determining how to approach each potential donor, whether the potential donor would be more receptive to a formal written proposal or a verbal proposal, discussing options for potential outright and/or estate gifts, ways of giving, negotiating the donor agreement for administration of gifts, determining when travel to meet with donors is appropriate, exercising budgetary authority over the their travel and development budget, etc. Education: A Bachelor's degree is required. An equivalent combination of years of experience and education may be considered for substitution of educational requirements. Experience: At least three years of successful professional experience is required, preferably in higher education fundraising or in a related career with a comparable, demonstrated, successful track record. Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills with all age groups are required. Strong oral and written communication skills are required. Organizational skills, particularly planning, setting deadlines, and evaluating progress, are required. Computer literacy, particularly in word processing, using Internet resources, and using databases, is required. Must be a self-starter committed to follow through. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required. Experience working effectively in a diverse environment is preferred. Effort: Occasionally required to lift and carry boxes of materials and equipment weighing 25-50 pounds. Other: The scope of the job requires travel as well as attendance at evening and/or weekend activities, meetings, events, seminars, and workshops and visits to donors in their homes and offices. recblid