Job Information
University Of Denver Executive Director Of Development, STEM in Denver, Colorado
About the University of Denver
The 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 Advancement
The 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 Summary
The 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 othe
The 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 Functions
Expand & 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.