Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Director of Annual Giving for the University of Tennessee Southern campus. Reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Advancement, the Director of Annual Giving is responsible for providing
strategic leadership and oversight of all annual giving programs designed to build a sustainable donor
pipeline and increase broad-based philanthropic support for the University.
This role will leads the planning, execution, and evaluation of a comprehensive, multi-year annual giving strategy that engages alumni, parents, students, faculty and staff, friends, and other key constituencies
through coordinated, multi-channel fundraising efforts.
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Annual Giving Strategy and Program Management: Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive annual giving program with clearly defined goals, consistent execution, and measurable outcomes. Plan and oversee major annual giving campaigns and events, including Giving Day initiatives, family campaigns, and crowdfunding efforts. Serve as the campus point of contact for academic, athletic, and unit-based annual giving efforts.
Donor Engagement: Lead strategic solicitation efforts through multiple channels including direct mail, email, social media, text messaging, crowdfunding, phone outreach, and in-person engagement. Collaborate closely with communications teams to develop compelling appeals that align with institutional messaging and brand standards.
Performance Tracking: Track, analyze, and report on annual giving performance metrics, donor participation, and revenue outcomes. Use data and insights to inform strategy, improve donor engagement, and optimize fundraising results across campaigns and initiatives.
QualificationsRequired Education and Experience The candidate who fills the Director of Annual Giving position is required to have:
- 5+ years of experience in fundraising, development, marketing, sales, or a related field
- Proven ability to design and execute donor- focused fundraising strategies
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders across campus and within advancement teams
- Willingness and ability to travel locally and regionally as needed
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:
- Experience in higher education or nonprofit fundraising, particularly annual giving
- Experience managing multi-channel fundraising campaigns and donor communications
- Demonstrated success in growing donor participation and annual giving revenue
- Familiarity with donor stewardship, alumni engagement, and advancement best practices
- Experience working with advancement services, stewardship, or alumni relations teams
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before February 23, 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 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 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 Southern, established in 2021 through the acquisition of Martin Methodist College (founded in 1870), is the fourth undergraduate campus in the UT System. As the only public four-year institution of higher education between Chattanooga and Memphis, and located approximately 70 miles south of Nashville and 40 miles north of Huntsville, Alabama, UT Southern offers a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience. Committed to academic excellence and community involvement, it prepares students for successful and meaningful careers.
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 6926
- Job Category Advancement
- Posting Date 02/09/2026, 11:08 AM
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 408 West Madison Str., Pulaski, TN, 38478, US
