Director of Major Gifts, Smeal College of Business

Position Overview

Penn State University seeks a Director of Major Gifts for the Smeal College of Business. The role reports to the Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations and collaborates with college leadership, central development offices, and other partners to advance the college’s fundraising mission.

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies.
• Articulate the college’s needs, ambitions, and values through both informal and formal communications, including written proposals.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies that lead to major gifts.
• Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed and aggressively set set of fundraising metrics.
• Work closely with college leadership and central development offices to align major gift activities with institutional priorities.

• Track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills needed to build relationships with sophisticated and high‑net‑worth audiences.
• Ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all stakeholders.
• Proven self‑motivation and capacity to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Passion for higher education and understanding of complex institutional contexts.
• Commitment to professional development, learning, and willingness to be mentored.

DDAR supports flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the essential duties of the position. Questions about flexible arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Bachelor’s Degree and at least 3years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

None.

Salary range: $81,312.00 – $. The position offers a competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid holidays, vacation, sick time, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.

Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with university policies, including a motor‑vehicle records check. The position requires operating a motor vehicle. Penn State does not sponsor visa employment.

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.