Director for Development, College of Humanities and Social Science

JOB PURPOSE:   

The Director for Development, College of Humanities and Social Science is responsible for overall Major Gift Fundraising and support programs for assigned College and volunteer engagement. He or she will serve as a strategic partner with Central Advancement, Donor Relations, Alumni, Annual Giving and Development ensuring conformity with the central fundraising efforts and the overall university development and alumni programs and goals and in promoting a culture of philanthropy and service by broadening constituents’ understanding of the value of giving of resources, time and expertise. 

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIRED: Minimum Bachelors

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: 2 years

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: (Preferred qualifications)

• Three to five years major/ year gift or related fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts of $25,000 and above from individual, foundation and corporate prospects, including campaign experience
• Prior experience in a college or university setting
• Enthusiasm for fundraising in a comprehensive university, and the desire to work collegially within a goal-oriented fundraising organization 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The Director of Development is responsible for the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and the stewardship of major gift prospects for his or hers assigned College and/or Centers, Programs, Institutes and special initiatives
• Focus on individual, corporate, and foundation prospects primarily at the $25,000 level and above, focusing on prospect gifts of $100,000 or more
• Coordinate solicitation with colleagues across the University to include but not limited to the Director of Trustee Relations, other Sr. and Development Directors, Donor Relations, Advancement Services, Government Relations, Community Engagement, KSU Research Foundation, President’s Office, Gift Planning, Athletics, KSU Foundation and alumni officers/directors; must communicate frequently with these persons, deans, other administration, faculty
• Design solicitation strategies on case by case basis, being cognizant of development and college office needs and procedures
• Assist Deans, Administration, Foundation and AVP and other Division leadership in the planning and implementation of all fundraising and alumni activities
• Assist/collaborate with the KSU Alumni Association to offer engagement opportunities with Nest activities and other alumni engagement strategies
• Maintain continuous personal contact with key volunteers, prospects, donors and lapsed donors throughout strategic assignments; communicate regularly in person, email, Skype, Zoom or via phone and mail
• Research industry standards, trends, breakthrough and best practices.  Implement changes accordingly to maintain competitiveness among peers and to meet agreed upon goals and objectives as determined by strategic plan and goals

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:  

• Bachelor's degree in appropriate areas of specialization and two years of fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts of $25,000 and above from individual and corporate prospects is required 
• Able to deal with multiple tasks or projects at one time
• Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem solving, independent judgment, technology, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management and presentation skills
• Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e. Microsoft Office suite)
• Strong Attention to detail and strong organizational and follow up skills
• Strong customer service skills and phone etiquette
• Exceptional judgment, strong initiative, and a quick learner with ability to think strategically and analytically and the organizational skills to move from vision to action
• Highly motivated and efficient operator with the ability to manage a significant volume of diverse tasks, activities and projects, including both tactical and strategic projects
• The highest standards of ethics, integrity, respect and humility
• The ability to work strategically, develop and implement constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers
• Working knowledge of a donor database, contact management and tracking system
• The ability and willingness to travel
• A valid driver's license and good driving record are essential