Director of Philanthropy

Director of Philanthropy

Marshall University is a public comprehensive university with a rich history as one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in West Virginia. Founded in 1837 and named after Chief Justice John Marshall, definer of the Constitution, Marshall University advances the public good through innovative, accredited educational programs. We are located in downtown Huntington, West Virginia, with additional locations in South Charleston, Point Pleasant, Teays Valley and Beckley. Marshall University's mission, inspired by our Vision and Creed, includes:

• Offer a wide range of high quality, affordable, and accessible undergraduate, graduate, and professional education that prepares students to think, learn, work, and live in an evolving global society.
• Create opportunities and experiences to foster understanding and appreciation of the rich diversity of thought and culture.
• Maintain a dynamic intellectual, artistic, and cultural life by promoting and supporting research and creative activities by undergraduates, graduates, and faculty.
• Contribute to the quality of life of the community, region, and beyond through applied research, economic development, health care, and cultural enrichment.
• Cultivate the development of an inclusive, just, and equitable community.

Position Information

Position Title - Director of Philanthropy

Banner Position Number - 02132026

E-Class - TN - MU Non-employee Position (NOT Benefits Eligible)

Department - Sr VP Development - MU6000

Job Description - Please note: This is a Marshall University Foundation, Inc benefits eligible position and not a Marshall University state position. The Director of Philanthropy is a key member of the Development Team and responsible for establishing, building and deepening meaningful relationships with Marshall University Foundation prospects and donors. Directors of Philanthropy cultivate, solicit and steward prospects and donors with the capacity to make major gifts at the $25,000 level and greater. This is a position for an entrepreneurial and relationship-driven fundraiser to expand and deepen the philanthropic contributions of a portfolio of prospects and donors. In 2026, the Marshall University Foundation will launch a major fundraising campaign, and the Director of Philanthropy will work collaboratively with Foundation and University colleagues to fulfill the campaign goals.

Strategic Prospect and Donor Engagement

Work closely with the CDO and Foundation and Development staff, university deans, faculty and key volunteers to pursue a coordinated and strategic program of cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of donors.

Identify, qualify, and advance major gift prospects through proactive prospecting, referrals, research, events, and relationship-building.

Make direct solicitations and close gifts; maintain a high level of donor and prospect engagement, including regular in-person and virtual meetings.

Manage a major gift donor portfolio of current, dormant, and prospective donors with the capacity to make gifts of $25,000 or greater.

By building relationships through cultivation and stewardship raise a minimum of $500,000 annually.

Portfolio Management

Leverage prospect research, data, and analytics to prioritize outreach, refine strategy, and strengthen the donor pipeline.

Document contacts and strategies using the moves management system.

Adhere to the Foundation's policies and procedures for accepting, recording and acknowledging gifts and pledges.

Other Duties

Pursue professional growth activities in collaboration with the Chief Development Officer.

Participate as a full member of the development team attending prospect management meetings, professional development activities and other staff meetings, as appropriate.

Monitor and process expenses on a timely basis and within approved budgets.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary Range - Salary is commensurate upon education, experience and internal equity

Salary Type - Salary

Time Type - Full-Time

Work Location - OTHR - Other Off-Campus Location

Qualifications Must be able to perform all essential job duties as outlined in the job description. Required Qualifications

Education - Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience - Minimum of 3 years of progressive and successful philanthropic development, relationship-based institutional sales, marketing, and/or related experience. Proven experience developing and managing relationships with high-level prospects. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills – written, verbal, and presentation. Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to travel locally and nationally to fulfill Key Responsibilities. Ability to work evenings and weekends to fulfill Key Responsibilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Education - Master's degree in business administration, public sector management, marketing, or related discipline.

Experience - Philanthropic development experience within a higher education, foundation, or non-profit institution. Proven success in securing major gifts and increasing donor support and engagement. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and donor databases.

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number - MU1222E

Open Date - 02/16/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled - Yes

Special Instructions Summary