Director of Development, Campus Initiatives

Job Description Summary

The Director of Development, Campus Initiatives advances Wake Forest University’s strategic priorities by securing philanthropic support for campus-wide initiatives that enhance student life, academic excellence, access and affordability, and overall campus experience.

In partnership with Cabinet-level leaders and development colleagues across University Advancement, the Director provides strategic fundraising leadership for high-priority initiatives.

The Director manages a portfolio of 100+ prospects and is responsible for securing major gifts ranging from $50,000 to $5,000,000+ from alumni, parents, and friends of the University. This role sets and achieves ambitious fundraising goals while strengthening relationships across campus to increase philanthropic investment.

A highly relational fundraiser, the Director cultivates leadership-level donors, builds strong partnerships with campus stakeholders, and collaborates closely with Advancement colleagues to design and execute successful fundraising strategies. This role calls for a professional deeply aligned with Wake Forest’s mission of Pro Humanitate who thrives in a collaborative, student-centered environment.

* This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

* Applications for this position will be accepted through February 6, 2026, 11:59 PM EST.

In order for your application to be considered received in full, please include a cover letter upon submittal.

• Serves as the primary development leader and liaison for assigned campus initiatives and programs, with annual individual fundraising goals of $2M and project goals ranging from $10M–$100M+.
• Collaborates with campus leaders and partners to translate institutional needs into clearly defined fundable priorities.
• Works closely with development officers across University Advancement to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major and principal gifts from shared and managed prospects.
• Develops and implements strategic communication and engagement plans that clearly articulate campus priorities and inspire donor investment.
• Maintains a strong and current understanding of Wake Forest’s strategic plan, campaign priorities, and evolving philanthropic goals.
• Maintains accurate donor records and activity reports in the University’s CRM system and consistently tracks progress toward individual and initiative-based fundraising goals.
• Collaborates with the Donor Experience team to creatively and strategically engage and steward donors, ensuring sustained connection to their philanthropic commitments.
• Contributes to a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the Advancement division.
• Demonstrates a passion for leadership and character development in the workplace.
• Maintains high standards of performance and take pride in contributing to a mission-driven organization.
• Embraces the opportunity to join a team that is making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day.

• Bachelor’s degree with eight to ten years of fundraising experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge and proven history of gaining philanthropic support and financial commitments from others.
• Knowledge, awareness, and skills related to fundraising in a student affairs/student success context.
• Ability to identify and secure gifts of non-traditional assets and/or charitable gifts from alternative funding/revenue sources.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituents.
• Commitment to the mission and values of University Advancement and a commitment to community and belonging with a willingness to proactively learn about it and integrate it into all aspects of the work.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.
• Ability to foster teamwork and cooperation in a work environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills in prioritizing workflow and managing…