Reporting to the VP for University Advancement/Associate VP of Advancement, this individual secures, facilitates, and strengthens strategic corporate partnerships and foundation relationships for Seattle Pacific University, a faith-based institution in the beautiful neighborhood and incredible city of Seattle, by executing proposals to gain substantial philanthropic support. Additionally, the director will partner with the President, Chief Academic Officer, VP for Business and Finance, as well as colleges and colleagues across the University to develop strong relationships, strategies, and compelling proposals that strategically align Seattle Pacific University’s priorities with corporate and private funders and program interests. The director will lead university efforts to research grant opportunities, work alongside leadership and key faculty to develop proposals, and provide stewardship reports to demonstrate the impact of private grants. Assumes a critical role in University leadership to convene and lead strategic initiatives and program planning. Will collaborate with the Sponsored Programs Office.

The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations will be a dynamic and enthusiastic member of the University Advancement Team and will work closely with faculty and administrators to identify key institutional strengths and priorities to develop compelling proposals to corporations and foundations to build and secure significant funding to advance and support the University’s programs and campaigns.

Responsibilities:

• Work with the VP for University Advancement, University President, and Chief Academic Officer to establish annual fundraising goals for corporate and foundation funding.
• Research, write, and successfully apply for private and corporate grant support (annual $250K+ or gifts of $50K+).
• Build and maintain a portfolio of 50-100 foundation and corporate donors, ensuring regular stewardship and solicitations.
• Collaborate with SPU community members to enhance corporate and foundation giving, unify approaches, and strategically steward gifts.
• Compose and edit grant proposals, letters, reports, and budgets in coordination with university collaborators. Ensure compliance with grantor guidelines.
• Develop relationships with foundation officers, board members, and foster connections with University personnel.

Requirements:

Desired Skills

• Quick development of institutional knowledge.
• Ability to create processes, drive change, and build bridges for strategic funding opportunities.
• Connecting external funder research to internal projects.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge or similar CRM preferred.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communication, or equivalent. Advanced degree preferred.
• Experience: Three years of related experience, preferably in a college or university setting.
• Preferred: Minimum five years of experience working with corporations and foundations in grant proposal preparation for an educational organization.
• Maturing and contagious Christian faith, with knowledge of and passion for the Christian mission of the University, including the willingness to accept the lifestyle standards of the Christian community.

Additional Information:

Position will remain open until filled. After an initial training period, the employee may be able to work a hybrid schedule arranged with the department. Employee must reside in the state of Washington.

Salary: $110,000 – $118,000 DOE

This is a full time position with excellent benefits. SPU pays the employee premium for medical, dental, and vision insurance. SPU makes generous contributions to an employee HSA account and a 7% contribution to a retirement account, for eligible employees, with immediate vesting in the plan. Tuition discount program (50% – 90%) available for the employee and qualified immediate family members.