Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Director of Development for the University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture. Reporting to the Assistant Vice Chancellor, the Director of Development is responsible for advancing the UT Institute of Agriculture with a focus on the efforts of UT AgResearch and UT Gardens through identifying, assessing, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding major gift prospects ($25,000).
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Major Gifts: Identify, assess, cultivate, solicit and steward major-gift prospects for UTIA. Expectations include setting goals for prospect visits, submitting proposals and raising money. Goals will be set based on experience and knowledge of the prospect pool.
Fundraising: Solicit and secure funding from external stakeholders including regional and international corporations and private foundations.
Collaboration: Develop and implement a robust fundraising strategy for UT AgResearch and the UT Gardens. Serve as AgResearch and UT Gardens contact for UTIA Advancement Team.
QualificationsRequired Education and Experience The candidate who fills the Director of Development position is required to have:
- 4+ years of related experience in fundraising, sales, and/or marketing
- Must be able and willing to travel independently and have reliable transportation
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, email and spreadsheet applications
- Strong communication skills and ability to work independently
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 2 years of experience.
Preferred Education and Experience In addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before January 30
th 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 Institute of Agriculture is dedicated to providing "Real. Life. Solutions." to society's most pressing issues. Through its extensive presence across the state and global outreach efforts, UTIA's work has a profound impact on agriculture, research, veterinary medicine, Extension, and more, ultimately contributing to economic growth, biodiversity and human and animal health.
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 6553
- Job Category Advancement
- Posting Date 01/12/2026, 02:19 PM
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 2621 Morgan Circle Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US
