Appointment Length.: 12 Months
Primary Purpose of the Position:
The Senior Director of Advancement Services is responsible for the strategic oversight and management of Winston-Salem State University's fundraising infrastructure, ensuring the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the university's advancement efforts.
This role supports the long-term financial sustainability and growth of WSSU by managing key functions such as gift processing, prospect management, donor relations, stewardship, and data integrity.
The Senior Director plays a central role in aligning these critical systems with WSSU's 2023 Strategic Priorities, including student success, equity and inclusion, operational excellence, and external engagement. By driving innovation, improving processes, and fostering strong donor relationships, this position ensures that the university's advancement operations are scalable, data-driven, and capable of supporting WSSU's mission to provide an equitable, transformative education.
Preferred Years Experience,Skills, Training , Education:
- Years of Experience
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in advancement services, development, or a related field within higher education or a nonprofit organization.
- Proven track record in managing key operational functions such as gift processing, donor database management, prospect research, and donor relations.
- Education
- Bachelor's degree required in business administration, nonprofit management, information systems, or a related field.
- Master's degree preferred in nonprofit management, business administration, higher education administration, or a related discipline.
- Preferred Skills
- Data Management Expertise: Advanced proficiency in managing donor databases (such as Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or other CRM systems) with a strong understanding of data integrity and security best practices.
- Leadership and Team Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage teams effectively, with strong interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across departments.
- Gift Processing and Compliance: Strong knowledge of fundraising principles, gift administration, and IRS guidelines related to charitable giving.
- Prospect Research and Moves Management: Expertise in identifying, researching, and tracking major gift prospects, as well as implementing moves management systems to enhance donor engagement.
- Operational Efficiency: Experience with process optimization, including automating workflows, improving donor data management systems, and increasing the scalability of advancement operations.
- Stewardship Best Practices: Deep understanding of donor recognition and stewardship strategies, including personalized engagement plans and impact reporting.
- Financial Management: Strong skills in budget management, tracking donations, and ensuring proper allocation of resources in alignment with institutional goals.
- Project Management: Strong project management skills, including experience overseeing multiple initiatives, ensuring deadlines are met, and aligning projects with strategic priorities.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage stakeholders and present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
- Training and Certifications
- Certifications in fundraising management or nonprofit leadership (such as CFRE, Certified Fund Raising Executive) are preferred but not required.
- Advanced training in donor database systems (Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar platforms) and data analytics.
- Ongoing professional development and training in fundraising best practices, donor stewardship, and advancement services.
The ideal candidate will combine extensive technical expertise in advancement operations with strategic leadership skills to drive WSSU's fundraising success and contribute to the institution's long-term financial sustainability.
Special Instructions Summary:
Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.
Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.
Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.
Winston Salem State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran and National Guard.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at OHR@wssu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834
