The Mission of the Division of University Advancement is to identify, develop, and secure the necessary resources to advance the University’s aspirations and goals, both now and in the future. Mindful that every relationship built and nurtured is of value to the University, we measure our impact through the generous gifts of time, talent and treasure shared within the University community. We are faithful stewards of these resources. Reporting to the Assistant Dean of Advancement, School of Arts & Sciences, the Director of Advancement will identify, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of major gift prospects for the School of Arts & Sciences. S/he will serve as a key member of the Advancement team within the School of Arts & Sciences, in the division of University Advancement. Together with the Assistant Dean, the Director will provide counsel to the Dean of the School and faculty on Advancement matters, and contribute to the philanthropic priorities and goals annually. His/her primary focus will be to solicit and close major gifts (defined as gifts of $50,000 and higher) for the benefit of the School of Arts & Sciences. The position collaborates closely with the central University Advancement team, which provides resources and strategic counsel, and uniform metrics to help drive results within the schools and across the University. The Director also participates in the collaborative effort in building alumni engagement and communicating the School’s mission, vision, and achievements to key donor, alumni, and additional external constituencies.

Responsibilities

With the Assistant Dean of Advancement, School of Arts and Sciences, lead the Advancement effort for the school by developing, implementing, and evaluating the annual advancement plan. Advance philanthropic priorities annually in support of the School. Focus on securing major and principal sources of support to meet funding priorities set by the Asst. Dean of Advancement and the Dean of Arts & Sciences. Manage a portfolio of relationships with major and principal gift suspects, prospects, and donors. The Director will be expected to conduct at least 100 prospect visits annually, soliciting and closing 15-25 major gifts and to engage the same number of new major prospects each year. While yearly gift revenue goals will vary, the Director must build upon a program that currently generates 7-figure revenue annually.

Collaborate with, and successfully guide academic partners through the major gift prospect development process; supporting them in building lasting and productive donor relationships. Build and maintain volunteer leadership alumni or external constituencies key to the school’s fundraising success. Participate in the management of, and recruitment for the School’s Board of Visitors. Participate in the school efforts in planning, executing, and marketing events and special initiatives aimed at cultivating donors, engaging alumni, and enhancing the visibility and reputation of the school. Share stewardship responsibility with the school’s budget office, advancement, and finance for ensuring the timely use and accountability for donor money contributed to the school and its programs.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required and a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible development/advancement experience within a large, highly complex non-profit environment. 3 year’s experience in major gift fundraising, including personal solicitations with a documented record of productivity. Experience managing volunteer leadership groups for philanthropic purposes. Higher education experience is preferred. Skill in using development-related database systems. Skilled in Google suite of products and standard office software including the Microsoft suite of products.

Must be polished, passionate and have exceptional interpersonal skills. Must possess the ability to lead and obtain results from professional colleagues and exceptional ability to communicate verbally and in writing. Must have effective planning skills. Familiarity with generally accepted office procedures. Skills in planned giving and wealth management desirable, but not required.

The ability to drive a vehicle (campus or non-campus) on behalf of university business. Possession of current and valid U.S. driver’s license appropriate to the type of university vehicle and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Driving Record (MVR) as stipulated in the Vehicle Guidelines and Procedures Manual administered through the office of Environmental Health and Safety. Annual clearance of MVR check through the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.