Director of Development - COSAM

Auburn Advancement is excited to begin the search for a Director of Development (College of Sciences and Mathematics) to join our philanthropy team! Under the leadership of Dean Edward Thomas Jr., Auburn University's College of Sciences and Mathematics is one of the largest colleges at Auburn and contributes to the success of all undergraduate students through core courses in science and mathematics.

The college offers 24 undergraduate majors, nine minors, and 12 graduate programs, providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom through research, internships, clinical shadowing, community engagement, and study abroad opportunities. Your leadership and strategic vision will cultivate meaningful relationships and secure transformative support that advances our mission and strengthens Auburn University's future.

• Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team: Provide strategic direction, mentorship, and oversight to a team of development professionals. Set clear expectations, manage performance, and foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and growth.
• Drive Fundraising Strategy and Results: Oversee major and principal gift efforts by guiding staff in developing effective solicitation strategies, monitoring progress toward goals, and ensuring alignment with institutional priorities. Cultivate and engage alumni, philanthropists, corporations, foundations, and volunteer leaders to secure philanthropic support. Align donor passions with Auburn University’s vision to address critical funding needs and advance the mission of the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics, benefiting its students, faculty, and staff.
• Strengthen Partnerships and Engagement: Build strong relationships with the College of Sciences and Mathematics Dean, academic leaders, and volunteer groups, ensuring active participation in fundraising efforts. Develop proposals and engagement strategies that keep top prospects informed and connected.
• Oversee Operations and Strategic Planning: Assess team effectiveness, remove barriers to success, and manage resources, including budget oversight. Collaborate with Advancement leadership to refine strategy, support campaign planning, and drive continuous improvement.

• Impactful Work: Your efforts will directly contribute to the growth and success of Auburn University, the Auburn College of Sciences and Mathematics, and their priorities.
• Collaborative Environment: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to making a difference.
• Purpose-Driven Work: Align your passion and fulfillment to your work, where you’re trusted to reach your full potential and achieve your pinnacle career experience.
• Culture by Design: Thrive in a culture that champions respect, accountability, and professional development.

This position reports to the Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy, Suzanne Tatum, and works in close partnership with Edward Thomas Jr., Dean of the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics.

Dean Thomas strengthens the college’s mission through leadership, scholarship, and mentorship. An internationally recognized plasma physicist, Thomas is the first Dean of the College of Sciences and Mathematics to hold a doctorate from Auburn University. He earned a bachelor's degree in physics from the Florida Institute of Technology (1989) and a master's degree in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1993) before completing his doctorate in physics at Auburn (1996).

He was an assistant professor at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee until he returned to Auburn University as a faculty member in 2000.

Thomas began serving as dean of the college in…