EXEC DIR, Development

Master’s degree and eight years of appropriate experience; or a bachelor’s degree and ten years of experience.

The Executive Director of Development- Regional will play a key role – individually and collectively – in cultivating long-term relationships with donors who have the capacity to make transformative gifts, while leveraging the relationships and vision of the university leaders to secure support for strategic university priorities and initiatives as well as colleges and units across campus. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Development, this position is responsible for the implementation of a broad range of support programs for the University primarily focused on acquiring major and principal gifts at the $100,000 level and above. Working closely with fundraising colleagues, academic leaders, faculty and volunteers, the Executive Director of Development - Development develops tailored engagement strategies that align donor passions with the University of Florida. This position requires a sophisticated understanding of principal gift strategy, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to furthering UF’s mission to be a premier institution for teaching, research, innovation, and service. The University of Florida recognizes both the value of telecommuting in fostering a flexible work environment. This is a remote position based within the state of California. 

Portfolio Management

• • Responsible for the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major and principal prospects.
  • Focus on individual, corporate, and foundation prospects rated at a capacity of $100,000 or above with particular focus on $1M+ commitments.
  • Assess and refine the portfolio by identifying new high-net-worth individuals and families with the capacity and affinity to support institutional priorities.
  • Create and execute tailored, multi-year engagement and solicitation strategies for each assigned prospect, leveraging a moves management framework. Each plan should be rooted in the donor's philanthropic interests and aligned with university strategic priorities.

Strategic Initiatives

• • Partner with university leaders and academic units to design and execute complex, multi-step donor strategies that lead to significant philanthropic investments.
  • Build and manage relationships, utilizing a strategic moves management approach to yield maximum philanthropic support in a timely fashion.
  • Work cross-functionally with faculty, academic administrators, and development colleagues to align donor interests with institutional priorities, including those outlined in UF’s strategic plan and campaign goals.
  • Develop and present concept papers and gift proposals and acknowledge and recognize gifts in ways that are meaningful to donors.
  • Establish relationships across campus that allows a strong understanding of UF programs including university wide initiatives as well as colleges and units initiatives. 
  • Contribute to the success of UF’s current and future comprehensive campaigns by advancing principal gift-level solicitations and supporting campaign leadership.

Donor Engagement

• • Organize and facilitate high-level engagement experiences, including campus visits, and personalized briefings and engagement opportunities to deepen prospect relationships.
  • Ensure exceptional donor stewardship through customized reporting, naming opportunities, and long-term relationship management.

Commensurate with education and experience. 

Exceptional Benefits We Offer

• Affordable State Health Plans: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Comprehensive Coverage: Life and Disability Insurance
• Secure Retirement Options: Generous plans to safeguard your future
• Inclusive Paid Time Off: Including 11 paid holidays, as well as family, sick, and vacation leave
• Professional and Personal Growth: Opportunities through UF Training & Organization Development, leadership development, LinkedIn learning, and more
• Tuition Assistance: Benefit from the UF Employee Education Program
• PSLF Eligibility: We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer

The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package. Click here to learn more. 

The ideal candidate will possess:

• At least eight years of major gift fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts of $100,000 and above from individual and corporate prospects with campaign experience.
• Prior experience in a college or university setting, enthusiasm for fundraising in a comprehensive research university, and the desire to work collegially within a goal-oriented fundraising organization.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards.
• Expertise in developing solicitation strategies.
• The ability to work strategically, develop and implement constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers.
• Competency in problem solving.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential.
• A commitment to and support for workplace inclusion in all its forms; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential.
• Proficient in the following areas: Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms. Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred.  
• The ability and willingness to travel. A valid driver license and good driving record are essential.*

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume and three references. Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date. Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.