Senior Director of Development: Lead Major Gifts

Fuel innovation. Empower future leaders. Transform what's possible.

At Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), we don't just educate -- we solve, build, and lead. We are seeking a visionary Senior Director of Development to drive philanthropic impact at a pivotal moment in our institution's growth. This is more than a fundraising role -- it's an opportunity to connect passionate donors with bold ideas, lead a high-performing team, and help shape the future of our students' success.

Your work will directly support a university defined by hands-on learning and meaningful outcomes.

Who We Are

MSOE is an academic institution intrinsically tied to the real world - a confluence of industry knowledge, work ethic and an enduring desire to know more. The university offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees in engineering, computer science, machine learning, user experience, construction management, actuarial science, business and nursing. With about 3,000 students, faculty and staff, MSOE is large enough for big opportunities and small enough for personal attention.

A Small University Dedicated to Achieving Big Things

MSOE is a supportive environment where everyone is valued. Our method of learning by doing is our distinction: it is how we teach, how we learn and how we serve. MSOE's top priority is serving our students. By joining our community, you are building the leaders of tomorrow.

Our Mission

MSOE is the university of choice for those seeking an inclusive community of experiential learners driven to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. We are united by our six values - collaboration, excellence, inclusion, innovation, integrity and stewardship - which represent the core of our campus culture. MSOE has embarked on an ambitious strategic plan, Extraordinary Together, that propels the institution forward.

At MSOE, we are dedicated to promoting an academic environment marked by an unwavering respect for every individual.

Our Leadership

MSOE is under the leadership of Dr. Eric Baumgartner. He began his Presidency in January 2026 after having served as the Executive Vice President of Academics at MSOE since 2017.

Summary

MSOE invites applications for a full-time Senior Director of Development to join our University Advancement team. Under the direction of the Vice President of University Advancement (VPUA), the Senior Director of Development is a mission-driven, strategic fundraising leader responsible for securing major and principal gifts that advance MSOE's top institutional priorities. Duties include oversight and management of the development staff and campaigns to achieve the philanthropic goals of the university, in accordance with MSOE's established policies and procedures.

The Senior Director plays a pivotal role in strengthening MSOE's long-term financial sustainability, expanding philanthropic partnerships, and stewarding donors who fuel innovation and student success. This leader manages a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects; partners closely with academic and administrative leadership; and provides guidance to development staff to ensure an integrated, high-performing fundraising program.

Essential Job Functions

Strategic Leadership & Collaboration

• Partners with the VPUA to refine and execute long-term fundraising strategies aligned with MSOE's mission and campaign goals.
• Provides strategic leadership and day-to-day management of fundraising campaigns to ensure successful execution and achievement of revenue and participation goals.
• Leads by example to foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, transparency and donor-centered stewardship.
• Works closely with Office of the President, chairs, faculty and campus leaders to translate institutional priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities and collaborating on donor engagement strategies.
• Collaborates across UA to ensure an integrated advancement function and seamless donor experiences.

Management of a Portfolio of Major and Principal Gift Donors/Prospects

• The Senior Director of Development is responsible for the development and management of a portfolio of qualified major and principal prospects and donors at the…