Appointment Length.: 12
Primary Purpose of the Position:
The Director of Development will monitor annual goals in support of campus priorities. The gifts officer secures gifts through identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors and prospects; develops strategies to secure gifts; manages a portfolio of donors & prospects; maintains an aggressive visitation schedule, in person and virtual, and travels as needed to meet donors & prospects. Working with staff, the gifts officer will provide assistance to the university campus and donor events as needed. Work collaboratively with staff, administrators, faculty, and board members to develop solicitation strategies. Strengthen ties with existing supporters and identify and engage new donors to perpetuate their giving to the university. Engage administrators and board members as part of the university's advancement strategy. Maintain a robust knowledge of college, program, and campus funding priorities and the university's mission and historical traditions.
Preferred Years Experience,Skills, Training , Education:
Education:
- An advanced degree is preferred.
Experience:- Experience working in higher education or complex nonprofit organizations preferred.
Skills & Competencies:- Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse constituents, including alumni, donors, faculty, and community leaders.
- Track record of requesting and securing visits and following up with consistency and efficiency at a fast pace.
- Ability to distill complex ideas into easily understandable concepts and communicate those ideas effectively.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare donor proposals, reports, and presentations.
- Ability to independently manage multiple priorities, set goals, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with donor databases/CRM systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Understanding of fundraising best practices, gift planning vehicles, and donor stewardship.
Personal Attributes:- Self-starter with a high degree of initiative, curiosity, and independence.
- Strategic thinker with a collaborative mindset.
- Strong integrity, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality.
- Willingness to travel regionally and nationally, and to work occasional evenings and weekends for donor engagement.
Special Instructions Summary:
Our agency supports second-chance employment for individuals who were previously incarcerated, or Justice-involved. We invite all potential applicants to apply for positions for Which they may be qualified.
Please Note:
- A criminal background check will be conducted on the 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 will 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 completed 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 completed until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.
- 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.
