Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Director of Gift Planning for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Reporting to the Executive Director of Gift Planning, the Director of Gift Planning is responsible for the identification, assessment, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of planned gifts that benefit colleges and units across the Knoxville campus. Such gifts may include outright gifts of cash, assets, Donor Advised Fund grants, life income gifts, and testamentary gifts.
This role will advise and collaborate with development staff in the design of gift identification, cultivation, solicitation, proposal follow-up, and stewardship strategies.
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Identification and Cultivation of Planned Gifts: Identify, assess, and qualify prospective donors for outright, blended, and deferred planned gifts through portfolio management, research, and ongoing engagement. Cultivate relationships with donors, their families, and professional advisors by articulating the impact of philanthropy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop donor-centered strategies that align donor intent with university priorities.
Solicitation and Gift Structuring: Develop and present donor-centric proposals of $50,000 or more that emphasize planned giving vehicles such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, and charitable remainder trusts. Lead solicitation and negotiation efforts in partnership with advancement colleagues, serving as a technical advisor on complex and blended gifts. Work closely with UTFI and professional advisors to structure, document, and close gifts in compliance with university and Foundation policies.
Stewardship: Ensure effective stewardship through timely acknowledgements, accurate documentation, and ongoing communication that reinforces donor impact and trust. Coordinate with UTFI staff to record, track, and administer planned gifts, including estate distributions and charitable trusts. Maintain long-term relationships with donors and internal partners through reporting, forecasting, and consistent follow-up to sustain and grow the planned giving pipeline.
QualificationsRequired Education and Experience The candidate who fills the Director of Gift Planning position is required to have:
- 5+ years of experience in a higher education environment or related experience in tax, estates, trusts, gift advisory, or legal services, financial services, frontline fundraising, or sales
A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required due to travel responsibilities of the position. UTFI reserves the right to consider all appropriate circumstances. In general, any significant driving offense less than 12 months old will eliminate the application from consideration for the position.
Note - Candidates holding a graduate degree must have at least 3 years of experience.
Preferred Education and Experience In addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
- 7+ years of planned giving experience in a higher education environment or non-profit organization
- Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
- Demonstrated knowledge of planned giving strategies and techniques, estate processes, and the administration of planned gifts
- Excellent telephone manner, strong verbal and written communication, and a capacity to build strong relationships with prospective and existing donors
- Possession of Professional Certifications and Designations such as: Certified Estate and Trust Specialist (CESTM); Certified Estate Planner (CEP®); Certified Financial Planner (CFP®); Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE®); Certified Public Accountant (CPA); LL.M in Tax, Wealth Management, or Estate Planning; MLS in Wealth Management; or Graduate Certificate in Law - Wealth Management or Estate Planning.
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before January 26th via our DASH application system. Applications must include a completed candidate profile, cover letter, and resume. Candidates selected to move forward in the evaluation process will be asked to provide contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without explicit permission of the candidate.
When determining minimum qualifications, only information entered into the candidate profile can be considered. Please ensure your candidate profile is completed in its entirety as it relates to qualifying education/work experience.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.
Questions about the search may be directed to
hr@utfi.org.
Target Start Date: April 1, 2026
Benefits: The Foundation's greatest asset is our team. Foundation employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:
- Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days
- Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members
- Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
- Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods
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The Foundation: The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization that serves as the preferred channel for private contributions benefiting students and faculty within the UT System. With a vision of being one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, UTFI is committed to enhancing the educational landscape across the University of Tennessee campuses.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been advancing knowledge and enriching lives since its founding in 1794. Tennessee's flagship public research university, UT Knoxville is a diverse community whose shared commitment to discovery, creativity, and education combines with a tradition of service and engagement to carry the Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. UT's campus-home to more than 36,000 students and 9,000 faculty and staff members-is part of the vibrant city of Knoxville, located on the Tennessee River with the Great Smoky Mountains nearby.
The UT System: The University of Tennessee System is comprised of campuses at Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski, Martin and the Health Science Center at Memphis; the Institute of Agriculture; and the Institute for Public Service.
The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, and parental status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law. Job Info - Job Identification 6496
- Job Category Advancement
- Posting Date 01/08/2026, 10:41 AM
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 1331 Circle Park, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US
