The Director of Development is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive development program for the University Libraries. The program incorporates both capital and annual fundraising, with an emphasis on major individual and planned gifts. This position engages in corporate and foundation fundraising and directs grant submissions/solicitations. As a constituent development officer in the university, the Director of Development coordinates all library development activities and major library donor events with the Dean of Libraries and University Librarian, the Office of University Advancement, and, as required, with the George Mason University Foundation, Inc. The Director participates in committees and/or workgroups as required to share knowledge, develop best practices, and advance the work of the Libraries.

Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy and Solicitations

• Works closely with the Dean of Libraries and University Librarian as an advisor on all aspects of fundraising for the George Mason University Libraries, including maintaining a personal portfolio and supporting the University’s Comprehensive Fundraising Program;
• Plans, organizes, and directs programs to secure major monetary gifts to the Libraries by pursuing the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, recognition, and stewardship of private financial support from individuals, corporations, and foundations.;
• Serves as the point person for Libraries fundraising and, as such, actively manages prospects capable of making major gift commitments over multiple years;
• Executes solicitation plans in close collaboration with the Dean of Libraries and the University Librarian and in coordination with Central Advancement;
• Develops detailed strategies and a pipeline for major gift prospects and pursues goals on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis, in concert with Central Advancement and Alumni Relations;
• Maintains an active schedule of face-to-face meetings and other forms of communication with active prospects;
• Coordinates the efforts of those who can assist in fundraising and works with offices across campus to coordinate related activities that further the University’s mission and achieve fundraising goals;
• Finds new and creative ways to engage donors that will enrich the donor experience and add value to the academic life of the University;
• Meets or exceeds all metrics and expectations set by Central Advancement;
• Travels as necessary for donor outreach and cultivation; and
• Displays good judgment and confidentiality.

Donor Stewardship

• Assists with the recruitment of a group of key fundraising volunteers through the Library Advisory Board;
• Stewards donors through ongoing communications, endowment reporting, recognition activities, and invitations to major events.;
• Supports the Libraries’ development publications and communications materials for donors and other external audiences; and
• Responsible for planning and coordinating major library events related to fundraising. 

Coordination with Central Advancement

• Coordinates fundraising with Central Advancement and utilizes services as appropriate;
• Ensures consistent and adequate communication between the Libraries and Central Advancement; and
• Works closely with Central Advancement services, including, but not limited to, Planned Giving, Annual Giving, Parents and Family Philanthropy, University Priorities, Alumni Relations, Communications, Systems, Operations, Donor Relations, and Gifts and Records. 

Grants

• Supports the Library’s efforts to secure grants from government agencies and other organizations in collaboration with library staff and in coordination with University Advancement and Office of Sponsored Programs; and
• Maintains awareness of academic research library grant opportunities as they become available.

Performs other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field;
• Proven ability to build a comprehensive fundraising program (annual giving, major gifts, stewardship, communications, volunteer management);
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and principles;
• Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and administrative skills;
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, Board members, and volunteers;
• Ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with stakeholders, supporters, and others;
• Ability to work independently and on a team;
• Ability to exercise discretion when dealing with confidential and donor information; and
• Ability to travel independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in related field;
• Experience fundraising in an academic research library and/or higher education setting;
• Experience working with and on capital campaign(s);
• Experience working with senior-level executives;
• Experience with fundraising software and donor databases; and
• Knowledge of online fundraising techniques.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Director of Development at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible, up to 2 telework days

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience and will be no less than $125,000

Posting Open Date: August 18, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by:  September 1, 2025

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Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason’s diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.

If you are interested in joining the Mason family take a look at our current opportunities and catch some Mason spirit at jobs.gmu.edu/!

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