Executive Director, Advancement

The Executive Director sets the course and direction for all activities relating to Fundraising, Major, and Planned Giving, with an emphasis on the Planned Giving Program. They are responsible for fundraising in the public and private sectors for the advancement of the university. The Executive Director of Advancement is also responsible for the University of Montevallo Foundation Board and the activities of the Board.

Essential Duties

1. Plan, manage and implement the Major and Planned Giving Program.

2. Coordinate with other fundraising staff (Annual Giving & Alumni relations) to maximize annual support and boost engagement.

3. Qualify and cultivate prospective donors.

4. Develop and propose strategies for solicitation of major gifts, including: maintaining ongoing relationships with prospect/donor through prospect visits; recommending specific purpose and level of gift; identifying those to be involved in cultivation and subsequent solicitation; assuring that solicitations are carried out.

5. Work closely with volunteers, faculty and senior administrators in major gift cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.

6. Manage communications with major donors across a wide variety of media, including internet, email, direct mail, proposals, phone calls, presentations, etc.

7. Supervise and lead staff including assigning duties, conducting performance evaluations, approving leave reports/timesheets, and ensuring that work assignments are completed accurately and in a timely manner.

8. Work with individuals with diverse backgrounds, focusing on the management of potential donors of $5,000+ and maintaining a portfolio of approximately 200 donors.

9. Oversee the UM Foundation Board and activities, including investments and audit.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to initiate, analyze, monitor, evaluate and alter strategic fund raising plans and goals;

Knowledge of business and volunteer management practices;

Knowledge of best practices in educational fund raising;

Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to speak effectively, both verbally and in writing;

Commitment to liberal arts education and cultural diversity.

Ability to travel extensively, on a routine basis;

Ability to supervise and evaluate the work of others.

Education and Experience

The educational requirement for this position is: Bachelor’s Degree in a related field; Master’s Degree preferred. Education not substituted for experience.

This position requires: At least five years of experience in the area of major gift fundraising, preferably in higher education. Two or more years of management experience. Experience not substituted for education.