Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Senior Director of Development for the Haslam College of Business on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus. Reporting to the Senior Executive Director of Advancement, the Senior Director of Development will serve as one of the most experienced and productive fundraisers on campus, with an emphasis on $1 million-plus gifts for the Haslam College of Business. Additionally, the Senior Director will oversee four frontline fundraisers (3 directors of development and 1 associate director).
The purpose of this position is to implement the strategic direction set forth for the college.
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Securing Funding: The Senior Director will be expected to personally secure significant philanthropic support to ensure the Haslam College of Business delivers a high-quality, fiscally sustainable program, while also mentoring and leading their team to meet and exceed fundraising expectations. Responsibilities include identifying, cultivating, soliciting, negotiating, and stewarding donor prospects through strategic engagement. An example of the Senior Director's annual metrics is as follows: 80-100 face-to-face visits, 15-20 solicitations ($50k and above), and $4 million in philanthropic revenue generated.
Management/Administrative: Oversight and leadership for three Directors of Development, setting fundraising and visit goals to maintain a strong and growing donor pipeline. The position collaborates closely with UTK development officers and campus leadership. It also assumes a visible leadership role aligned with the professional standards of Haslam College of Business and UTK Advancement.
Stewardship: Supports and staffs key college advancement events, including the Alumni Awards Gala, stewardship tailgates, donor events, and other college and university functions throughout the year. The role also hosts several donor stewardship lunches or meetings annually to strengthen relationships and recognition.
QualificationsRequired Education and ExperienceThe candidate who fills the Senior Director of Advancement position is required to have:
- Bachelor's degree
- Demonstrated familiarity with higher education fundraising
- Team development and management skills
- 8+ years of development, sales, or related work experience
- 2+ years of supervisory experience
- Ability to lead in a metrics-oriented environment and provide strategic leadership.
- Ability to develop and implement a donor-centric fundraising culture within the Haslam College of Business
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Willingness to travel overnight
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 4 years of experience.
Preferred Education and ExperienceIn addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
- Master's degree
- Demonstrated ability in securing major and principal gifts from individuals and/or corporations/foundations
- Experience in pipeline development and prospect identification
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as situations require
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before April 1, 2026 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 the 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 the 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: July 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 6958
- Job Category Advancement
- Posting Date 02/10/2026, 10:08 AM
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 1000 Volunteer Boulevard, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US
