• Provide impactful leadership for fundraising efforts, building an infrastructure that supports UMCES’ short- and long-term goals and creates local, regional, and national affinity;
• Further develop a prospect research process to build the pool of individual high-net-worth prospects. Deepen alliances with current donors and board members, and launch systematic initiatives to identify and target individuals capable of making major and principal level contributions;
• Grow UMCES’ base of corporate and foundation support. Provide insights and develop new strategies and tailored cases for support to enhance the organization’s relationships with the business and foundation communities;
• Guide and support the president in his role as a chief spokesperson and fundraiser. Work closely with the president and senior leadership to support public awareness opportunities as they relate to fundraising;
• Provide comprehensive, timely, and compelling stewardship. Prioritize the stewardship of all gifts and grants in ways that strengthen donor interest in, engagement with, and commitment to UMCES;
• Plan and carefully manage the development budget, ensuring that dollars are spent efficiently and effectively in support of UMCES goals and objectives;
• Manage a small team in support of the priorities of the office of the VPA.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• A deep respect for, belief in, and ability to articulate UMCES’ values and mission, and a passion for strengthening the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the region;
• A self-motivated and entrepreneurial approach to building and guiding an advancement program, and an ability to work independently to drive growth;
• A track record of successfully cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding leadership gifts and grants at the six- and seven-figure level;
• At least five years of experience building a development program, formulating and executing a successful fundraising plan;
• Excellent written, presentation, and communication skills, and the experience and inclination to be an effective, outgoing spokesperson for UMCES;
• Adept at fostering dialogue with multiple constituencies, building coalitions, and achieving results through influence, empowerment, and understanding of the dynamics of difference and privilege;
• A personal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and demonstrated ability to build relationships and successfully advance diversity, inclusion, and positive change;
• A flexible and adaptable leader who can positively impact both strategic and tactical fundraising initiatives and work well with individuals from all backgrounds;
• Integrity, imagination, strong listening skills, and a high level of energy;
• Bachelor’s degree required.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Proven leadership and organizational skills.
• A keen understanding of fundraising best practices, a strong record of securing major and principal gifts, and a demonstrated ability to build a highly efficient and effective development program.
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity and trust, as well as a deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
• A self-starter who thrives in an entrepreneurial and team-oriented environment, with a sense of urgency and a clear set of priorities, but with the ability to adapt to quickly changing circumstances.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is an equal opportunity employer. The Center’s policies, programs, and activities are in conformance with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, and disability. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; or related legal requirements should be directed to the Director of Human Relations, Center Administration, P.O. Box 775, Cambridge, MD 21613.