Director, Advancement, Thunderbird School of Global Management

Director, Advancement, Thunderbird School of Global Management

Thunderbird School of Global Management has one of the most global and dynamic networks of alumni and donors in the world. T-birds are true global citizens, defined by their global mindset, entrepreneurial nature, ability to navigate different cultures and environments and bring unique perspectives to complex situations. Founded on the principle that borders frequented by trade seldom need soldiers, Thunderbird is as vital for the world today as it ever has been.

Alumni and donors are critical to Thunderbird's student experience, strategy, philanthropic ambitions and future growth, and this is a unique opportunity to shape a modern and global engagement strategy as dynamic and innovative as the constituents it serves.

The Director, Advancement will serve as a key frontline fundraiser as part of an integrated advancement team, influencing strategy development, and engagement efforts for Thunderbird's major gifts program. The Director will manage an international portfolio and steward relationships with alumni globally, while cultivating a global pipeline of major donors and prospects. As a vital member of a team of experienced fundraisers, the Director will serve as a true partner working across the global advancement team, estate and planned giving, and with other unit leads as relevant.

This role is also a critical connector for the relationships with other teams at Thunderbird.

The Director will manage and mentor new fundraisers and proactively engage with staff and faculty who want to learn more and get involved in philanthropy. They will act us the lead fundraiser for at least one or more of Thunderbird stated campaign priorities. While alumni donors will always be central for this position, there is also a desire to grow philanthropic income, raised through grants, trusts, foundations and corporations, so expertise in fundraising from one of these key groups is advantageous.

Collaboration, flexibility and adaptability are central to this role. An experienced major gift officer with a strong track record in raising six and seven figure gifts, and with an annual giving and higher education background would be ideal for this role. Over half of Thunderbird's base reside overseas, therefore a global perspective, international work and lived experience are key for success in this position.

Multilingual skills would be an advantage.

Thunderbird has big ambitions for its advancement team. The school has an incredibly strong track record in fundraising, and under the leadership of Dean Griffy-Brown has some exciting priorities and programs which will bring the Thunderbird experience to life for generations of students to come. A persuasive communicator and skilled relationship builder, the Director will be someone who thrives in a fast-paced, globally networked environment and is inspired by Thunderbird's role as a force for good in developing the entrepreneurs, industries and ecosystems of the future.

Digital literacy, in particular an understanding of the potential presented by AI and other digital tools, is essential.

This role would suit someone who loves to travel and enjoys experiencing different cultures. Joining Thunderbird means being part of an inspiring international community at the forefront of global management, digital transformation and purpose-driven leadership. This position offers the chance to put philanthropy at the heart of Thunderbird's mission and drive measurable global impact.

• Build and manage a portfolio of major and leadership gift, prospects, and secure, philanthropic investments in support of Thunderbird's priorities, with a primary focus on securing gifts above the $100,000 level
• Achieve a personal fundraising goal of at least $2 million in accordance with performance metrics
• Lead at least one key priority for the school, building out a comprehensive prospect list, and cultivation strategies that include, but are not limited to, alumni
• Develop and submit written proposals, case statements, budgets, and other collateral materials needed to secure philanthropic investments
• Contribute to the…