Director of Major Gifts

Director of Major Gifts

Get to Know Us! 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 a commitment to:

• 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 Major Gifts

Banner Position Number - 002681

E-Class - NC - Nonclassified - .53 or >

Department - Fundraising - MU7040

Job Description - The Director of Major Gifts for the Big Green Scholarship Foundation serves as a key member of the development team, responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift prospects in support of the Foundation and Marshall Athletics with preference to scholarships, capital projects, and priority initiatives aligned with the Foundation's Executive Director and the Director of Intercollegiate AthleticsMajor Gift Fundraising• Identify, cultivate, and secure major gift prospects capable of giving at $10,000+ annually.• Secure major gifts in support of athletic scholarships and priority initiatives.• Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals, including metrics for dollars raised, visits and• Actively qualify new major gift prospects through research, referrals, and engagement strategies.• Utilize current systems to track donor interactions, proposals, and progress toward goals.Collaboration & Internal Partnership• Work closely with athletics leadership, coaches, and development staff to help fundraise and collaborate with ourindividual sports.• Partner with our external staff to enhance donor experience and engagement opportunities and assist in the salesof our premium seating / areas.• Assist in executing major events, donor hospitality, donor trips and individual sporting events.• Build strong relationships with alumni, donors, fans, and community stakeholders.Strategic Initiatives• Contribute to annual and long-term fundraising strategies for Big Green.• Support targeted fundraising initiatives.• Assist in integrating emerging tools (e.g., data analytics, AI prospecting) to enhance donor identification andengagement.Metrics / Key Performance Indicators• Number of major gift solicitations completed• Number of donor visits (in-person/virtual)• New major gift prospects identified and qualified

Salary Range - $55,000 - $65,000; Salary is commensurate upon education, experience and internal equity

Salary Type - Salary

Time Type - Full-Time

Work Location - MU - Marshall University

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

Education - Bachelor's Degree

Experience - 3–5 years of experience in fundraising, sales, or relationship management (preferably in collegiate athletics or higher education).Demonstrated success in securing major or leadership gifts, or comparable sales achievements. Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.Ability to travel and work evenings/weekends

Preferred Qualifications

Education - Graduate Degree or specific certifications

Experience - Experience in NCAA Division I athletics fundraising.Familiarity with donor databases/CRMs (e.g., Paciolan, Salesforce, or similar systems).Proven ability to manage a donor portfolio and close five- and six-figure gifts.Understanding of collegiate athletics culture, donor motivations and the ever-changing landscape of athletics and its effects on philanthropic giving

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number - MU1276E

Open Date - 07/27/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled - Yes

Special Instructions Summary

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Do you have a Bachelor's Degree?
   • Yes
   • No

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter

Optional Documents