Executive Director, Educational Foundation & Development

Overview

The Executive Director of the Educational Foundation & Development provides strategic, operational, and philanthropic leadership for all fundraising, donor engagement, and foundation activities at Howard Community College. This role serves as the chief advancement officer for the Foundation, with direct oversight of development strategy, donor relations, major gifts, campaigns, stewardship, and foundation operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and executes comprehensive fundraising and donor engagement strategies.
• Oversees donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and retention.
• Manages a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects.
• Oversees donor engagement programs, events, and stewardship initiatives.
• Ensures development of case statements, proposals, and impact reports.

Leadership, Management & Staff Oversight

• Directly supervises the Director of Development & Donor Engagement and all advancement staff.
• Establishes performance expectations and professional development plans.
• Buids a collaborative, results-oriented advancement team culture.
• Oversees foundation financial resources, budgets, investments, and audits.
• Ensures compliance with donor intent and regulatory requirements.
• Oversees donor/prospect management systems and reporting.

Board & Executive Partnership

• Serves as primary liaison to the Educational Foundation Board.
• Leads board development and fundraising engagement.
• Partners with executive leadership to align fundraising priorities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborates with academic and operational leaders on funding priorities.
• Oversees fundraising communications and public relations alignment.
• Represents the Foundation at institutional and community events.
• Develops strategic and annual advancement plans.
• Uses metrics and analytics to guide fundraising strategy.
• Aligns fundraising with institutional sustainability goals.

POSTION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s degree preferred) and seven years of progressively responsible experience in resource development and management of fundraising functions, preferably in higher education, or approved combination of education and experience required
• Strong analytical abilities
• Proven experience in major gift campaigns and other fundraising initiatives including special events
• Knowledge of software applications and database management
• Knowledge of financial/accounting reporting and record keeping
• Ability to implement a comprehensive and integrated strategy for development activities
• Ability to lead projects/activities including managing volunteers
• Ability to organize and implement work schedule effectively
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills

PHYSICAL EQUIREMENTS

This position is primarily sedentary and performed in a professional office environment. The role requires the ability to sit for extended periods; use a computer and other standard office equipment; communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via virtual platforms; and read printed and electronic materials.

The position also requires the ability to attend on-campus and offsite meetings and events, which may involve standing or walking for moderate periods and occasional local travel. The employee may occasionally lift or carry light materials (up to 10–15 pounds).

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Some weekends and evenings to cover events and meetings
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to the development office conflict of interest and confidentiality policy
• Ability to work effectively with diverse constituents including faculty, staff, students, college trustees, Howard Community College Educational Foundation board of directors, corporate executives, community leaders, and alumni
• Performs all duties while considering the impact of any action on the college’s sustainability initiatives in the areas of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic prosperity.

SUPERVISION

Direct supervision of Director of Resource Development, Grants Coordinator, and Assistant Director of Resource Development. The position is responsible for overall supervision of the entire staff of the development office.