Director of Development

Position Summary The Director of Development is a direct‑fundraising position that serves as the primary development office contact for an assigned academic unit. This exempt position is responsible for the qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of a portfolio of prospects—including individuals and corporations/foundations—with a focus on major gifts of $25,000 and above. It will manage and implement assigned fundraising projects and support the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, while collaborating with the Division of Advancement and senior leadership to develop and execute unit‑specific plans. Responsibilities Establish and maintain a portfolio of 100‑125 current and prospective donors. Actively qualify prospective donors for integration within the overall prospect portfolio. Develop, document, and implement comprehensive strategies for assigned major gift prospects, and create monthly reports to evaluate results and refine ongoing strategies. Serve as the primary development office liaison for assigned college(s) and work with the Dean(s) to identify and cultivate major gift prospects and to develop and execute solicitation strategies. Develop targeted relationships with key faculty, staff, and alumni to support prospect cultivation and donor stewardship. Integrate alumni engagement opportunities into larger cultivation plans. Meet or exceed established metrics, including fiscal year fundraising results, a monthly target of 12 face‑to‑face visits, and other meaningful contacts with prospects. Prepare donor proposals and gift agreements as needed. Create and file digital contact reports through the Raiser’s Edge database to track interactions with prospects. Develop and implement plans for new fundraising initiatives. Attend departmental, campaign, college, and university functions as appropriate. Work evenings and weekends when required; travel frequently and manage travel schedules. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. 1–3 years of fundraising experience; sales, nonprofit management, grant‑writing, or investment management experience is considered favorable. Preferred Qualifications 3–5 years of higher‑education fundraising experience. Experience with the Raiser’s Edge NXT relationship management system. Experience working within a capital campaign environment. Legal Notice Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies of the University of North Carolina. #J-18808-Ljbffr