Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations

Job Summary PLNU is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations to expand philanthropic partnerships that advance the university’s mission and priorities. Compensation Salary: $90,000 - $110,000 (Actual salary offered is determined by the candidate’s experience, education, skill, and other factors). Job Status Full time. Benefits Health and dental coverage Tuition benefits for employees and dependents Competitive retirement matching Vacation and sick time 15 paid holidays per year Staff chapel and wellness program opportunities Responsibilities Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to strengthen PLNU’s corporate and foundation partnerships and increase philanthropic support. Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with corporations, foundations, and strategic community partners aligned with university priorities. Lead the preparation and submission of compelling grant proposals, sponsorship requests, and funding applications. Manage the full grant lifecycle including prospect research, proposal development, reporting, stewardship, and compliance tracking. Collaborate with university leadership, deans, faculty, and staff to identify funding priorities and partnership opportunities. Work closely with the academic grant office to coordinate a university-wide grants strategy and support funding initiatives across academic units. Develop donor impact reports and stewardship communications that demonstrate meaningful outcomes and institutional impact. Organize meetings, events, and engagement opportunities for corporate and foundation partners to deepen relationships with the university. Provide guidance and support to faculty and staff related to grant writing, foundation engagement, and corporate partnership opportunities. Conduct ongoing research into philanthropic trends, corporate giving priorities, and emerging partnership opportunities. Collaborate with Pathways and Partnerships initiatives to strengthen employer and community engagement opportunities. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required. Minimum of 5–7 years of professional experience in corporate and foundation relations, fundraising, or a related field, preferably in a higher education setting. Proven track record of securing significant corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and other large-scale philanthropic gifts. Strong knowledge of the corporate and foundation landscape, including grant‑making processes and philanthropic priorities. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write compelling grant proposals and deliver effective presentations. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, donors, and external stakeholders. Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement; staff will agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant. The job offer is contingent on successful completion of a background check. Preferred Qualifications Experience with fundraising databases or constituent relationship management (CRM) software. Familiarity with the San Diego corporate and foundation community. Understanding of the unique aspects of Christian higher education and its appeal to potential donors. Physical Requirements Primarily sedentary work; requires sitting for extended periods. Use of computer equipment including keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Ability to read documents, email, reports, and other correspondence on paper and computer monitor. Ability to communicate effectively with others in person and by phone. Ability to stand, stoop, push, pull, and lift up to 10 pounds. Occasional travel required, including visits to corporate and foundation partners, conferences, and events. Evening and weekend work may be necessary to meet goals and deadlines. EEO Statement Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. #J-18808-Ljbffr