Director of Development, Foundation Relations

Director of Development, Foundation Relations Apply now Job no: 498886 Work type: Staff Full-Time Location: Denver, CO Categories: Alumni / Development / Fundraising, Business Operations / Services, Admin / Executive / Office Support, Advancement Division: Advancement The University of Denver (DU), a private university, is the oldest independent university in the Rocky Mountain region, with approximately 12,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. DU is classified as an R1: Doctoral University. About DU Advancement The Denver Difference campaign is our most ambitious campaign yet, transforming how the university experience is perceived. DU is building an advancement enterprise that mirrors the excellence and innovation of our institution, fostering a culture of deep engagement and philanthropy. About the Foundation Relations Team Our team is dedicated to securing funding from private grant‑making organizations to support the University’s highest priorities. The team consists of an Executive Director, Director, and Manager, each playing a crucial role in advancing the university’s mission through strong foundation partnerships. Position Summary We seek an experienced, driven Foundation Relations fundraiser to join our Advancement team as Director of Development. The Director will partner with academic, research, and advancement colleagues to secure private foundation gifts, manage a portfolio of prospects, and provide expertise in pre‑ and post‑award grant processes. Responsibilities Lead the solicitation of annual and major gifts, targeting $1,000,000+ annually. Develop and execute complex fundraising strategies for qualified foundations and major gifts ranging from $50,000 to $999,999. Maintain a donor portfolio with capacity for gifts of $50,000+ and manage relationships with foundation leadership and program officers. Collaboration with academic leaders to identify and translate fundable priorities into compelling proposals. Produce major‑gift proposals, craft cases for support, and manage stewardship communications. Track and report on key performance indicators such as visits, solicitations, and dollars raised. Act as a mentor and steward for the development team, preparing colleagues for donor meetings. Ensure compliance with university policies and manage budgetary resources for efficient fundraising. Partner with the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs on grant opportunities and coordination. Represent the University’s academic programs and initiatives in donor conversations and proposals. Essential Functions Secure gifts and grants aligned with institutional priorities and strategic initiatives. Leverage campaign priorities and university initiatives to inspire philanthropic investment. Solicit private foundations for major gifts and grants of $50,000+ including use‑funding, endowments, and multi‑year commitments. Manage a portfolio of donors capable of making $50,000+ gifts. Develop donor engagement and stewardship initiatives, articulating the impact of philanthropy. Ensure accurate, timely entry of donor data in the CRM and report performance metrics. Collaborate with central, unit‑based advancement teams and campus colleagues to align donor interests with institutional needs. Provide strategic guidance to team members and support staff. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience. Seven (7) years of professional experience, including at least five (5) years of direct fundraising experience. Experience closing major gifts ($50,000–$999,999) through portfolio management and relationship building. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and donor management systems such as Salesforce and Advance. Experience securing gifts and grants from private foundations in a higher‑education or complex nonprofit context. Preferred: Hybrid work capability, travel outside Denver, and support for occasional events and evening activities. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Expertise in major‑gift fundraising and institutional giving outcomes. Ability to cultivate and close gifts of $100,000+; craft compelling cases for support. Strong written and oral communication, relationship‑building, and strategic thinking skills. Effective supervisor and mentor to team members. Collaboration with deans, faculty, and advancement colleagues to shape cases for support. Experience managing an individual portfolio to meet personal and unit goals. Physical Activities Use computer for extended periods. Occasional light physical activity; transport up to 20 lbs with assistance. No vehicle operation required. Work Schedule Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Salary and Benefits Salary Grade 14. Salary range: $100,000 – $115,000. Benefits include medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit, and ECO pass. EEO Statement The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including all aspects of gender identity and expression), marital status, family or parental status, pregnancy, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Application Process Submit application materials online through jobs.du.edu by the deadline: Application deadline: 4:00 p.m. (MST) August 3, 2026. Required documents:

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter