Director OF Development

Development OfficerThe Development Officer will report to the Chief Advancement Officer and will be primarily responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding mid-level and principal gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Retaining current donors is a crucial aspect of the Development Officer's role, as it helps ensure ongoing support for the University. This role involves developing and executing strategic fundraising plans, managing donor relationships, coordinating appeals campaigns, and contributing to the overall success of Advancement efforts. The Development Officer will collaborate with various stakeholders, alumni relations, and other university departments, to align fundraising activities with the academic priorities and goals of the University as defined by the Columbus State University President. This position will primarily be responsible for raising private philanthropic support for CSU Athletic Programs.Significant Duties & Responsibilities include: Cultivate prospects and present proposals for leadership level gifts ($25,000+) and maintain positive relationships with donors and prospects.; Identify and implement strategies to engage and retain the top donors for current initiatives.; Maintain knowledge of best practices in development and show evidence of implementation and incorporation of these practices in activities, calls and initiatives.; Collaboratively participate as a member of the University Advancement team on development and stewardship initiatives.; Fundraising Strategy: Collaborate with University Advancement leadership to develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with the University goals and priorities.; Prospect Identification: Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gifts from individuals, to support the initiatives, programs, and scholarships.; Donor Relations and Retention: Build and maintain strong relationships with current and potential donors, alumni, and friends of the college. Foster a sense of community and engagement. Collaborating with University Advancement leadership, develop and implement annual and long-range strategic plans for level gifts of $25,000+.; Provide regular updates on fundraising progress and collaborate on strategic decision-making to University Advancement leadership.; In the fundraising software, document and share all development and stewardship work related to identifying, evaluating, cultivating, and soliciting donors.; Stewardship: Collaborating closely with University Advancement leadership, recognize and appreciate donors, ensuring continued support and involvement.; Budget Management: Work within budgetary constraints to maximize fundraising efforts and contribute to the financial health of the University.; Other: Collaborate with University Advancement leadership on strategic projects and other duties as assigned.Required Qualifications include: Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Previous experience of at least five years in development, fundraising, or a related role is preferred but not required.; Effective communication and relationship-building skills.; Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.; Familiarity with fundraising software and donor databases.; Understanding of academic priorities and the capacity to articulate them to potential donors.; Ability to travel as needed.; Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities include: An initiative-taker, comfortable working independently, but consistently contributes to the team.; Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.; Maintain consistent and positive communication with the Dean and University Advancement staff.; Facilitate strong communications with alumni.; Excellent communication skills to include effective and persuasive writing, public speaking, and people skills.; Professional demeanor.; Careful attention to detail.If you have any questions, please contact Karen McCauley, Hiring Manager, via email at View email address on click.appcast.io.