Senior Director of Development

WSUFAE is looking for a Senior Director of Development for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) to lead transformational fundraising efforts that advance the mission of Wichita State University. This dynamic leadership role is responsible for cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major and principal gift donors while managing a high‑performing development team that serves the College of LAS and the Honors College. Responsibilities Identification and Prospective Donors Collaborate with the Data Sciences team to identify, qualify, and prioritize potential major and principal gift donors. Develop and maintain a pipeline of prospective donors through research, networking, and outreach. Work with the AVP of Development and senior leadership to create and execute donor identification strategies. Cultivation and Solicitation Manage and grow a portfolio of individual donors to achieve giving goals. Implement personalized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for high‑net‑worth donors. Collaborate with marketing and communications to produce high‑quality proposals, presentations, and engagement activities. Gift Solicitation and Closing Actively work toward meeting annual metrics, collaborating with team members for cohesive efforts. Develop and execute strategies to secure financial support aligned with personal, team, and WSUFAE fundraising goals. Lead the solicitation of major, principal, and planned gifts, closing contributions that support WSU’s priorities. Team Development/Management Provide vision and leadership to the College of LAS and Honors College development team, aligning with WSUFAE and WSU priorities. Recruit, train, and mentor high‑performing team members, establishing and monitoring goals for accountability and progress. Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation within the team and across WSUFAE. Administrative Duties Develop and manage an annual budget for fundraising activities and professional development. Set annual fundraising goals and objectives in conjunction with WSUFAE’s goals. Maintain accurate computer and paper files as required. Perform any other duties as assigned. Job Requirements Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Fundraising experience closing Major Gifts ($25,000 or more). Exceptional interpersonal skills, building trust with high‑net‑worth individuals and institutional leaders. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, meeting challenging deadlines and executing sophisticated gift‑securing strategies. Strong analytical skills, using data to inform decision‑making. Willingness to travel, including occasional weekend and evening work. Valid driver’s license and insurance. Professional image at all times. Commitment to WSUFAE core values: Integrity, Service, Excellence, Collaboration. Physical Requirements Frequent movements from sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking. Extended periods of standing or sitting. Frequent use of a telephone for prolonged periods. Exposure to large crowds, loud noises, bright or flashing lights. Occasional travel for conferences and donor/alumni engagement opportunities. Frequent lifting up to 20 pounds; occasional lifting up to 50 pounds when traveling. Occasional exposure to outdoors and inclement weather. Preferred Requirements and Skills Graduate degree from an accredited institution. CFRE (Certified Fund‑Raising Executive) certification. Fundraising experience closing gifts of $250,000 or more. Database knowledge. Knowledge of Wichita State University and commitment to higher education. ADA Statement In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, Wichita State Foundation and Alumni Engagement will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with a disability in completing the application form or in the interview process. Please notify the Human Resources Office at View phone number on click.appcast.io or e‑mail View email address on click.appcast.io in advance so necessary arrangements can be made. To Apply Please fill out an application, submit your resume, and include a cover letter explaining your interests and qualifications for the position. WSUFAE is an EOE employer #J-18808-Ljbffr