Head of Development (Remote)

About University of Denver
University of Denver (DU) is a private R1 doctoral university serving approximately 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students. DU is known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and innovative education.
We are seeking an experienced Foundation Relations fundraiser to serve as the Director of Development, Foundation Relations. The Director reports to the Executive Director of Foundation Relations and collaborates with academic, research, and advancement colleagues to secure funding from private grant‑making foundations for DU’s strategic priorities.
Contribute to annual and campaign goals by securing gifts and grants aligned with institutional priorities.
Leverage campaign priorities and university initiatives to inspire philanthropic investment.
Solicit private foundations for major gifts and grants of $50,000+, including current‑use funding, endowments, and multi‑year commitments.
Represent the university’s academic programs and initiatives in donor conversations and proposals.
Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to development team members and support staff.
Prepare, debrief, and coach colleagues and academic partners for donor meetings and solicitations.
Partner with academic leaders to identify fundable priorities and translate them into compelling philanthropic opportunities.
Ensure accurate and timely entry of contact reports and donor data in the CRM.
Track and report on key performance indicators such as qualifications, visits, solicitations, and dollars raised.
Manage complex projects and initiatives in compliance with university policies and procedures.
Partner with central and unit‑based advancement teams and campus colleagues.
Staff dean, academic leaders, and/or faculty to drive strategy, preparing for donor visits, and follow‑up.
Liaise closely with the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs on grant opportunity communications, limited submission competitions, and pre‑ and post‑award grant coordination.
Intentionally and thoughtfully partner with faculty, academic leadership, grant administrators, and other advancement colleagues to develop fundable proposals to foundations, including interdisciplinary, multi‑unit campus projects.
Experience writing major gift proposals and crafting compelling cases for support.
Capability to build and manage an individual portfolio to meet personal goals.
Collaboration with deans, faculty, grant administrators, and other Advancement teams.
Standard open office environment.
role may be remote or on‑call as required by university policy.
Physical Activities
Ability to use a computer for an extended period.
Occasional movement around the office/campus and transportation of items up to 20 lbswith assistance.
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – Medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit, and ECO pass.
Application Deadline
Submit application materials by 4:00 p.m. (Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu . Only online applications will be accepted.
Required Documents
University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.