Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations

Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations

The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations advances Missouri State University Foundation fundraising efforts by aligning the philanthropic interests of corporations and private foundations with the University's strategic priorities and mission. This position is responsible for developing and managing relationships with corporate and private foundation partners through the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of prospective and current donors.

The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations develops and implements fundraising strategies focused on securing support from corporate and private foundation sources, while also engaging individual donors and businesses as assigned by University Advancement leadership. This position initiates and conducts personal outreach with key corporate and foundation representatives and accompanies the University President, the Vice President for University Advancement, development staff, academic deans, and/or faculty members on visits to strengthen donor relationships and advance fundraising objectives.

Responsibilities also include writing and submitting compelling gift and grant proposals, with an emphasis on opportunities of $25,000 or more. The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations develops proposals and grant applications to foundations that meet donor guidelines and specifications as well as University policies and fundraising priorities. The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations collaborates with campus partners to provide timely reports and financial tracking of grants from foundations that have made philanthropic gifts to the University.

The Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations advances the Missouri State University Foundation's fundraising goals by securing philanthropic support from corporations and private foundations. The position develops and manages donor relationships and implements strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward corporate and foundation partners.

Education:

A Bachelor's degree is required in Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations or other related field is required. Master's degree preferred. An equivalent combination of years of experience and education may be considered for substitution of educational requirements.

Experience:

At least three years of successful professional experience is required, preferably in higher education fundraising or in a related career with a comparable, demonstrated, and a documented successful track record. Experience in grant administration and grant writing or other similar professional writing is preferred.

Skills:

Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective professional relationships. Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential, exceptional organizational and project management abilities, including strategic planning, deadline management, prioritization of competing demands, and evaluation of progress toward key goals and outcomes. Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft products, internet-based research tools, and database systems, is required. Must possess the ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple priorities simultaneously, meet firm deadlines, and achieve established fundraising objectives.

Effort:
Occasionally required to lift and carry boxes of materials and equipment weighing 25-50 pounds.

Other:
The scope of the job requires travel as well as attendance at evening and/or weekend activities, meetings, events, seminars, and workshops and visits to donors in their homes and offices. A valid driver's license is required.