Director of Development, Foundation Relations

ABOUT UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

Georgia State University Advancement works to further Georgia State’s status as a national leader in student success, research and innovation, and cultural impact. By connecting with alumni, engaging donors, and increasing philanthropic support for students and scholars, we’re helping to transform lives and build our global community. The University Advancement Division furthers the university and its mission through several departments, including Development, Corporate & Foundation Relations, Alumni Relations, and the Georgia State University Foundation.

Corporate and Foundation Relations

The Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations (CFR) works with Georgia State faculty and administrators and with foundations and corporations to foster mutually beneficial collaborations and meaningful partnerships in areas such as philanthropy, sponsored research, student recruitment, technology transfer, and continuing education.

These are exciting times at the University Advancement. We are growing, and we are thrilled that you are interested in being a part of our team. We are surrounded by individuals empowered to use their expertise and talents to achieve our mission to identify, cultivate, and steward donors.

Are you ready for us? Are you seeking an opportunity with purpose and direction? If you are, we have the perfect opportunity for you! We hire great people from a wide variety of educational, career, and personal backgrounds, not just because it is the right thing to do but because it makes us a stronger team.

University Advancement is seeking (1) Director of Development to join the already incredible team taking Georgia State University to the next level of excellence!

WHAT MAKES UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT A GREAT PLACE?

• Generous benefits, including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, etc.

• A knowledge-sharing organization that works collaboratively with cross-campus and external partners

• Professional development opportunity and mentorship

• A rapidly growing center within an academic setting

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Job Summary

Under the leadership of the Senior Director of Foundation Relations, the Director of Development will be a major gift front-line fundraiser, responsible for leading major gift strategies from identification through stewardship. Directors of Development will manage individual portfolios with prospects capable of giving gifts in excess of $50,000. Portfolios will range in size from 120 to 150 individuals, face-to-face visits will be 10-15 visits per month, and fundraising goals will be equivalent to and at a minimum of $1-2M annually.

Directors are responsible for having a comprehensive understanding of university priorities, regularly meeting with prospects and donors (with a focus on face-to-face visits), regularly meeting with advancement colleagues and academic leaders, preparing briefing materials and gift proposals, attending events, and staffing and/or supervising projects as assigned.

Successful candidates will approach their role with a sense of donor-centeredness, collaboration, and transparency. They will have strong communication skills and be willing to serve as role models to other professionals and support staff. High integrity, strong self-motivation, innovation, flexibility, and passion are all valued qualities on the University Advancement team. Additionally, successful candidates will have a proven ability to build long-term relationships while also consistently meeting fundraising goals.

Individuals will also be required to work nights and weekends, when necessary, and travel (via plane, train, or car) at least 15% of the time within and outside of the state of Georgia. As our program is complex and in a phase of rapid innovation, the ability to adapt to quickly changing environments is key.

Job Duties

Fundraising and Prospect Management (75%)

• Manage a portfolio of 120 – 150 prospects that include the most influential, complex, or highest capacity-rated donors. Ensure regular contact with donors through various activities and communications, especially face-to-face visits.

• Qualify major gift prospects and solicit gifts directly by…