Senior Director Annual & Major Gifts

Notre Dame of Maryland University is seeking a Senior Director for Annual and Major Gifts for the Office of Institutional Advancement. Reporting to the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and University Communications (VPIAC), this position is responsible for working directly with the Vice President to provide leadership and best-practice strategies to achieve the annual and campaign philanthropic goals of the University.

Some of the essential functions of the Senior Director for Annual and Major Gifts include:

• Work closely with the VPIAC on innovative strategies for the ongoing enhancement of fundraising and constituent relations to maximize the University's potential.
• Work closely with the VPIAC to build, sustain and lead a high-performing, diverse and entrepreneurial fundraising team focused on achieving excellence as measured by performance indicators, achievement of goals, and year-over-year growth.
• Work closely with the VPIAC to support the President, Trustees, and other University leaders as partner, resource and coach for major and campaign gift solicitations and communications strategy development for annual, major and campaign gifts.
• Organize and oversee all Notre Dame annual fund and campaign committees in a productive, timely manner.
• Manage a portfolio of 80-100 major and planned giving prospects: identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors.
• Oversee, guide, and monitor implementation of the overall annual fund and campaign plan and timetable including the appropriate phase activities and goals, gift tables, volunteer needs, and major responsibilities to guide and manage detailed and robust activity.
• Lead efforts to engage the University with its various constituencies, with a special focus on maximizing philanthropic potential of alumnae and alumni from Women's College, adult undergraduate and graduate, friends, and longstanding partners of the University.
• Expand the University's capacity for philanthropic growth by mobilizing administrators, faculty, staff, and SSNDs in advancement efforts.

Qualifications

The qualified candidate will have a Bachelor's degree, Master's degree preferred and a minimum of 3-5 years' experience in a leadership position of similar responsibility and authority with proven track record of fundraising success, preferably in higher education. Must have experience in annual giving, as well as direct solicitation in major and planned gifts. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and comfortable navigating a donor database. Must be a comfortable and confident public speaker, capable of conducting/facilitating meetings, adept at working with people from a wide variety of ages, races and socioeconomic levels. Demonstrated ability to think strategically and to achieve results in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Outstanding leadership and organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines. Excellent communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written. Some nights and weekends will be required. Limited regional and national travel required, but always with significant advance planning.