About the University of DenverThe University of Denver is a private institution dedicated to the public
good. Here, we create a better future for all.Through the 4D Experience, our community members build skills, knowledge
and perspective at our campuses nestled in the vibrant city of Denver and the
Rocky Mountains. As globally-minded citizens, we strive to make a difference
in the world and create real, lasting change through collaborations and
cutting-edge research designed to solve real-world challenges. For over 150
years, DU has offered a multitude of disciplines, majors and degrees
designed to prepare students for lives and careers of purpose.About DU AdvancementThe Denver Difference campaign is our most ambitious yet. It marks a dramatic
shift in conventional thinking about what the university experience can and
should be. DU is setting the bar with our approach to higher education,
developing and preparing students to be successful in life in every way. The
University of Denver is building an advancement enterprise that mirrors the
excellence and innovation of our great institution. Inclusive of alumni
relations, development, and student and alumni career services, DU
Advancement is building and fostering a culture of deep engagement and
philanthropy in support of our bold vision.The University of Denver and DU Advancement deeply value inclusive
excellence, recognizing that its success is dependent on how well it
values, engages, and includes the rich diversity of constituents. As a
part of that effort, we are continuing to grow a team of inclusive,
collaborative, inquisitive, innovative, ethical, and transparent
advancement professionals who possess deep mutual respect for one another and
for our shared profession.Position SummaryThe University of Denver is seeking an experienced, driven, and passionate
fundraiser to lead fundraising efforts for the University's STEM-related
schools, colleges, and institutes. The Executive Director of Development
will expand and deepen the base of philanthropic support from prospects
interested in investing in education, focusing efforts on building a
sustainable pipeline of major gift prospects for the College of Natural
Sciences and Mathematics (NSM), the Ritchie School of Engineering and
Computer Science (RSECS), and the Knoebel Institute of Healthy Aging
(KIHA). Reporting directly to the Assistant Vice Chancellor of
Development, Schools & Colleges, the Executive Director of Development
works closely and collaboratively with the deans, academic leaders,
faculty, and peers in the assigned academic units.The Executive Director of Development will have a heavy focus on qualification
and solicitation of individual major gift prospects using a donor-centered
approach. Key performance indicators for this position include: major gift
qualifications, visits, major gift solicitations, and dollars raised.
While the focus of this role is working with individual prospects and
donors, the Executive Director will also partner with central advancement
functions in Foundation Relations, Annual Giving, and Gift Planning,
among otheThe successful candidate will be highly collaborative, motivated, and
skilled at building relationships. Alumni and prospective donors identify with
the academic units, as well as specific academic programs within, and the
Executive Director will be expected to be knowledgeable about the unique
programs and creative in their approach to prospect strategies.Essential FunctionsExpand & deepen the base of philanthropy:
Identify and qualify major gift prospects for the College of Natural
Sciences and Mathematics, the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer
Science, and the Knoebel Institute of Healthy Aging as measured by the
number of visits and qualified prospects.
Cultivate and solicit gifts at the principal, major, and leadership
annual giving levels, with a focus on maj r gifts of $50,000+.
Metrics include number of solicitations and dollars raised (approximate
$2.5M-$5M combined goal for units).
Manage a portfolio of prospects and donors who have the capacity to give at
major and principal giving levels through strategic cultivation and
solicitation, as measured by efficient and fast-paced moves management
techniques.
Develop a working knowledge of the STEM-related academic units in general
and funding priorities specifically to articulate a compelling case for
support to all stakeholders.
Solicit managed prospects for annual gifts as appropriate.
Campaign Readiness:
Partner closely with the deans and academic leaders to articulate a
compelling vision for philanthropic investment including a framework for
philanthropic initiatives that will inspire philanthropy over the course of a
comprehensive campaign.
Craft multi-year donor strategies to achieve the philanthropic goals of the
campaign.
Partner with stakeholders across campus on fundraising strategies for
interdisciplinary campaign initiatives that involve the STEM-related academic
units.
When appropriate, leverage volunteers to facilitate strategic development
activities.
Leadership:
Lead development activity within the assigned units, including staffing
the deans and other academic leadership on donor visits.