Director of Development

Director of Development

The Director of Development is responsible for implementing a broad range of fundraising activities, primarily focused on soliciting and closing major gifts ($100K+) in support of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Reporting to the Senior Director of Development, the incumbent is responsible for assisting in developing and executing the fundraising program to fulfill the financial needs as identified by the Dean of the college, and in alignment with the strategic initiatives of UF Advancement. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Fundraising and Relationship Development

• Build a portfolio of fundraising prospects at the major gift levels ($100,000+) and strategically manage relationships through face-to-face visits to bring gift solicitations to closure.
• Within 36 months of the start date, develop a portfolio that will consistently raise $1.5 - $2 million per year or more in support of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, averaging 140-160 personal visits annually and 10-15 gift solicitations per year of $50,000 or more.
• Maximize travel plans for major gift solicitations/donor engagement to strategic geographic regions.
• Collaborate with the Office of Estate & Gift Planning team to develop and implement a gifting strategy for qualified donor portfolios at the planned giving level.

Development Strategy

• Set and implement strategies for identification, qualification, relationship-building, and solicitation to close and steward major gifts for the college.
• Collaborate with college faculty and unit/program directors to understand and formulate priorities and opportunities related to individual gifts at the assessed level.
• Must develop a comprehensive understanding of the college mission, strategy, and goals as they relate to fundraising.
• Acknowledge and recognize gifts in ways that are meaningful to donors and appropriate to the mission, vision, and values of the unit and UF Advancement.

Communications/Events/Administration

• Develop and implement communication and engagement plans to keep prospects connected to the college and informed about the mission, vision, and values of the unit, its funding priorities, and gift opportunities.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with college administration and faculty through regular, consistent, and relevant communication.
• Write gift proposals, concept papers, and other documents that will help to inspire donors to give generously to support the college.
• Attend and support activities and events involving volunteers and prospects.
• Serve as a liaison for CLAS Advancement to at least one departmental advisory board
• Partner with faculty and staff at the college for donor engagement and fundraising strategy

Administrative

• Ensure best practices in-office systems, files, and record keeping.
• Provide research, market, and prospect information for inclusion into the UFA’s integrated database, and handle confidential prospect information in a sensitive, ethical manner.
• Contribute to the planning and monitoring of the budget, using resources for best results in fundraising and planning activities involving volunteers, prospects, faculty, and administration.

This position is open to remote candidates located in major cities throughout Florida. Remote employees must be willing and able to travel to Gainesville as necessitated by prospect meetings and/or staffing needs.

$82,000–$95,000 annually; commensurate with education and experience. The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package including health, retirement, paid time off, discount programs, professional development, and work life support.

Master’s degree in appropriate area of specialization and three years of appropriate experience in Development or a related field; or a bachelor’s degree in appropriate areas of specialization and five years of experience in Development or a related field.

• At least three years of fundraising, development, sales, or related experience.
• Prior experience in a university or nonprofit environment.
• General knowledge and understanding of business/economic environment.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards.
• Demonstrated successful experience in prospect identification, relationship building, solicitation, and stewardship.
• The ability to work strategically, develop and implement constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers.
• Ability to work collaboratively and a team player.
• Competency in problem-solving.
• Must be an outstanding communicator and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills; interpersonal skills; and the ability to work collegially and interact effectively with a broad constituency.
• An appreciation for and support of inclusivity in the workplace in all its forms; proven success working with stakeholders; project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge using various computer programs: Windows, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Chrome and Firefox, and E-mail. Working knowledge of donor database, contact management, and tracking system.
• The ability and willingness to travel. A valid driver's license and a good driving record are essential.*

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume and three references. Applications must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.