Director, Development

Director, Development at University of Delaware

The Director of Development is responsible for major gift fundraising for the assigned College/unit, including identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major and principal gift donors. The emphasis is on soliciting gifts of $50,000 or more from individuals, corporations, and foundations.

• Assist the Senior Director of Development or AVP to develop and execute an overall fundraising strategy, establish priorities, and set goals.
• Manage a portfolio of 50‑75 qualified major and principal giving prospects capable of a significant gift of $50,000 or more.
• Conduct all stages of the major‑gift process, including qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of identified prospects.
• Provide donors and prospects with an exceptional experience, moving them to gift closure through thoughtful communication and engagement.
• Assist in developing and executing solicitation plans that map key steps toward a successful solicitation within three years.
• Acquire in‑depth knowledge of College and University programs to implement effective donor cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Develop high‑level draft proposals and agreements for named initiatives and recognition opportunities.
• Follow and execute all stated processes and procedures.

• Serve as a secondary DAR contact and work closely with the college/university Dean, Department Chairs, faculty, and staff on fundraising strategies and donor engagement.
• Assist with coordinating and scheduling DAR and college/unit monthly fundraising meetings.
• Act as a subject‑matter expert for gift officers working with prospects in the assigned college/unit.
• Collaborate with development colleagues managing college‑based donors and prospects with philanthropic interests.
• Assist in coordinating stewardship reports and activities for prospects with appropriate college/university administration and faculty members.

• Demonstrate desired behaviors by partnering effectively with colleagues within DAR to foster a cross‑functional team approach.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum of six years of relevant experience (development, sales, customer relations, etc.), or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to solicit and close philanthropic gifts on the six‑figure level, or equivalent experience in a related field such as sales.
• Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to initiate, collaborate, implement, monitor, evaluate, and advance strategic plans.
• Superior interpersonal skills.
• Ability to interact and collaborate with varied constituencies professionally, with excellent written and oral communication, team‑building, and diplomatic skills.
• Comfort in meeting and interacting with individuals of considerable social status and affluence.
• Ability to apply good judgment and responsible decision‑making skills; tact and discretion required for confidential donor information.

• Mid‑Senior level

• Full‑time

• Other

• Higher Education