Job Summary

The Senior Director is responsible for the organization and administration of all facets of the fundraising program in ACOB including ACOB’s national fundraising programs. As an active Member of the Dean’s Leadership Team, the Senior Director of Advancement for Ahuja College of Business (ACOB), will design, articulate, and implement a comprehensive fundraising and corporate partnership strategy for the college including future fundraising campaigns, solicitation and stewardship of individuals, corporations, foundations, and writing grants and proposals to secure philanthropic support. The Senior Director will recruit and manage a Team of experienced development officers, charged with developing new and creative approaches to increase major donors and planned giving. In addition, the Senior Director will manage a portfolio of 125 qualified major and principal gift prospects, at the dollar level of 6 to 7 figures. As a member of the senior leadership of the ACOB, and working with the Visiting Committee and Advising Boards, , the Senior Director will synchronize ACOB’s fundraising initiatives with the core mission of the University.. Approximately 80 percent of the senior director’s time will be focused on identification, cultivation and stewardship of companies and principal gifts from high net worth individuals. Working with the Dean, his position will require direct face-to-face, as well as virtual cultivation, solicitation and stewardship visits with company CEOs and Foundation executives. As part of the university’s senior development team, the incumbent will be expected to work collegially, and in partnership, with central and other school-based colleagues.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience: Must have 7 or more years of progressive experience in development or related field, including experience working with senior staff levels to design, articulate, and implement comprehensive fundraising and corporate partnership strategies. Previous supervisor experience. Must have a proven track record of successful fundraising including closing major gifts and/or large transactions/contracts. Education/Licensing: Bachelor’s degree required.

Required Skills

• Highly experienced practitioner with broad knowledge of the principles and practices of fundraising.
• Strategic thinker and entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and energy to develop and initiate new strategies to attract new donors and increase giving of valued donors to the school.
• An appreciation of alumni, friends, fellow staff, faculty, students and all outside contacts. Tact, approachability and responsiveness are key components. Strong interpersonal skills expressed in relationships with donors, alumni, administrators, staff and faculty.
• Ability to lead and work as a team member.
• Strong public presence with the wisdom/sophistication to know when to take the lead and when to follow.
• Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly motivated self-starter who demonstrates sound judgment, insight, maturity, and accountability in behavior and attitude.
• Strong organizational and planning skills from conceptualization through implementation.
• Computer proficiency (including Microsoft Office) and the ability to learn new programs.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior higher education experience