Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

Job Description

Idaho State University invites applicants for the position of Associate Vice President for Development within University Advancement. Reporting directly to the Vice President for University Advancement and serving as a member of the Advancement executive leadership team, the Associate Vice President for Development (AVP) will provide strategic leadership, vision and oversight for the university’s major gifts program, including college-based and central fundraising operations to include estate and gift planning and corporate and foundation giving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and assessment of annual and long-term fundraising strategies focused on major gifts in support of Idaho State University’s strategic goals and campaign priorities.
• Oversee and support the performance and professional development of college-based and central development officers, ensuring effective goal-setting, accountability, and collaboration with academic leadership.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to development officers on major gift cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and portfolio management best practices.
• Partner with academic deans, directors, and campus leaders to develop fundraising priorities, cultivate donor relationships, and facilitate meaningful philanthropic engagement.
• Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects with a focus on securing six and seven-figure commitments.
• Provide strategic counsel on donor communications, proposals, and stewardship efforts to ensure alignment with institutional messaging and donor intent.
• Collaborate with colleagues in Advancement to integrate annual giving, stewardship, alumni engagement, and communications into major gift fundraising strategies.
• Lead training programs for academic and administrative partners on fundraising fundamentals and donor engagement.
• Monitor and report on major gift fundraising performance, pipeline development, and campaign progress to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the recruitment, on-boarding and retention of high-performing development professionals.
• Ensure compliance with university and ISU Foundation policies, as well as responsible budget and resource management.
• Serve as a contributing member of the Advancement executive team, participating in strategic planning, change management, and cross-functional initiatives to advance the university’s mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as a nonprofit management, communications, public administration, business, or higher education
• At least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in major gift fundraising, preferable in higher education or a nonprofit organization
• At least five (5) years of leadership experience managing development professionals or fundraising teams, with demonstrated success in performance management and staff development
• Proven track record of cultivating, soliciting, and closing major gifts of $100,000+

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Experience working within academic fundraising environments
• Demonstrated ability to build strong partnerships with academic and administrative leadership
• Familiarity with donor database systems and advancement analytics
• Strong interpersonal, writing, and public speaking skills

Additional Information

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before August 7, 2025. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our https://www.isu.edu/hr/employee-tools/talent-acquisition/ta-faqs/.

Posting Number: req2551

Type: Working 12 months per year

Position: Non-classified Staff

Division: Idaho State University

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email mailto:[email protected].

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.