We are expanding our fundraising efforts in Leadership Annual Giving and are seeking three experienced and results-driven individuals with a demonstrated commitment to philanthropy. These positions require self-motivated individuals who are collaborative and committed to driving innovative thinking and support for the University’s reunion programs and leadership gift society, Delaware Diamonds Society (DDS).

The University of Delaware (UD) is currently in the silent phase of a comprehensive campaign.  As part of this effort, the Office of Development & Alumni Relations is building a model fundraising and engagement infrastructure, one that will meet the growing needs of the University and support the Delaware Will Shine initiatives, the University’s strategic plan, and secure funding for established and emerging University campaign priorities.  It is our mission to engage donors, alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff and students in a lifelong relationship and foster a tradition of philanthropy to strengthen the University’s legacy as one of the great public institutions of higher education in America.

Under the general direction of the Director of Leadership Annual Giving, the new positions of Assistant/Associate Directors of Leadership Annual Giving are responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating and soliciting gifts at the Delaware Diamonds Society level of giving, $1,000 and up, with a focus on attracting new and increased donors at the $1,000-$100,000 level. The Assistant/Associate Directors are expected to personally solicit and close gifts totaling $500,000-$1,000,000 annually, manage a pool of prospects in their assigned alumni classes, and maintain an active and ongoing schedule of 12-15 face-to-face meetings per month with alumni and donors.

These frontline gift officers are also responsible for garnering financial support from alumni celebrating landmark reunion years at UD. The Assistant/Associate Directors will recruit reunion committee members who are expected to give at the Delaware Diamonds Society level and will be cultivated as current or future major gifts prospects. The Assistant/Associate Directors work with the reunion committee volunteers to drive attendance and financial support from classmates in honor of their reunion. This requires year round outreach and engagement culminating in the Alumni Weekend celebration held each June.

The Leadership Annual Giving team is responsible for fostering a culture of philanthropy among UD alumni and developing a pipeline for major gifts.  Frequent travel (local, regional and sometimes national) is required for this position.

Qualifications:

Demonstrated experience with fundraising or alumni relations in a higher education environment, professional fundraising experience highly desired, or relevant experience. Demonstrated aptitude to network among and solicit high net worth individuals. Bachelor’s degree required and one to five years of development, volunteer management, or related experience; advanced degree is a plus. Ability to establish and maintain positive and productive working relationships with external and internal constituencies. Ability to conceptualize, analyze, assess, develop, and implement fundraising programs and strategies. Demonstrated experience solving and managing difficult issues and problems. Ability to create contingency plans and handle last minute requests and emergencies with poise and composure and using good judgment. Demonstrated experience and aptitude engaging, involving and motivating groups of diverse individuals. Ability to work effectively in a team setting and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; strong interpersonal skills are a must. Ability to articulate and advocate for programmatic and institutional goals clearly and persuasively, both one-on-one and in group settings. Ability to work well under pressure and manage projects simultaneously; strong time management and organizational skills are required. Proficiency with basic computer programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Proficiency using search engines and networking tools including social media. Demonstrated ability to create presentations using presentation software. Aptitude for learning new technologies. Ability to analyze and manipulate large data sets. Experience using databases required. Commitment to collaborative teamwork and individual accountability. A goal-oriented work ethic, creativity, self-motivation and initiative, and integrity are essential to success. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion, diplomacy and tact. Ability to travel locally and regionally; valid driver’s license required. Ability to work occasionally on weekends, evenings and early mornings.

For a complete list of requirements and job duties and to apply online, please visit the UDJOBS website at www.udel.edu/udjobs  Job ID 103205.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity Employer which encourages applications from minority group members, women, individuals with a disability and veterans.  The University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination can be found at http://www.udel.edu/aboutus/legalnotices.html. Employment offers will be conditioned upon successful completion of a criminal background check.  A conviction will not necessarily exclude you from employment.