Director of Development

The Director of Development will report to the Vice President for Institutional Advancement.  The Director of Development advances the mission of Wilberforce University by securing philanthropic gifts of $5,000 - $25,00 that are aligned with the University’s strategic objectives, programs and funding initiatives. This position requires a significant level of self-motivation, goal-orientation, attention to detail, and commitment to identify, establish and sustain professional relationships with potential major gift donors, alumni and friends. These relationships will advance the constituent’s engagement with the University as a philanthropic supporter. Responsibilities will emphasize development and implementation of qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to secure contributions in support of the University’s fundraising priorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

           Fundraising

Actively manage and engage a portfolio of prospective donors, advancing relationships through appropriate stages of qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of gifts of $5,000 or more, with an emphasis on major gift pipeline development.

• Work closely with Vice President for Institutional Advancement and execute a comprehensive short and long-term fundraising plan to advance University fundraising initiatives and programs.

• Establish professional relationships with unit leadership and faculty, including engagement and solicitation strategies with key prospects and donors, as appropriate.

• Create an annual work plan to accomplish specific goals and objectives that align with overall Advancement priorities.

• Collaborate with the Directors of Alumni Affairs, and Annual Giving.

• Coordinate prospect strategies and share contact information with other fundraisers.

• Meet and exceed yearly performance metrics including visit and substantive contact, solicitation, and gift closure goals.

• Actively participate in University Advancement divisional, prospect management, team collaboration and strategic planning meetings.

• Engage alumni, volunteers, and friends of the University through strategic personal communication, meetings, and gatherings.

• Develop and maintain a strong working knowledge of the University, its programs, and strategic priorities.

• Actively participate in campus life, including attendance at key events such as Homecoming, athletic competitions, student performances, gift announcements, groundbreakings and dedications.

• Host donors and prospects at events that advance cultivation for future philanthropic support, and stewardship.

• Record visits, emails and phone calls with prospects and donors, and document and update solicitation proposals in the Advancement database, in a timely manner and in accordance with divisional policies and procedures.

• Follow all established processes and policies as established by University and Advancement leadership.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Understanding or willingness to learn industry best practices, CASE guidelines, and University -specific policies, processes, and procedures, with strong attention to detail.

• Willingness to employ all manner of appropriate communication to secure visits with prospective donors.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required with a graduate degree preferred. Proficiency using MS Office Suite.  

• This role will require local, regional, and national travel.

Preferred:

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit organization; experience cultivating and soliciting gifts of $5,000 or more.
• Familiarity working with donor databases such as Raiser’s Edge.