Director of Development, David Nazarian College of Business and Economics

Responsibilities

Under general supervision, the Director of Development - DNCBE identifies, cultivates, and solicits major gifts of $25,000 or more, organizes fundraising events, and fosters philanthropic engagement.

• Oversees and organizes special cultivation and fundraising events for the College.
• Fosters a culture of philanthropy among staff and volunteers.
• Maintains a culture of communication within the college, Advancement division, donors, and volunteers.
• Ensures best practices and procedures related to data management and prospect management.
• Supports initiatives such as building the college advisory board and high-level stewardship planning.

As a leader, demonstrates a commitment to student success that is mission aligned with the university's vision, values and priorities. Establishes an ethical and collegial work environment, promoting a collaborative, accountable and inclusive team. Encourages a courageous and resilient solution-oriented environment by participating in new opportunities to further the mission of the university. Participates in developing initiatives that further support the campus mission with a service-oriented and catalytic mind set. Strengthens employees by being communicative and a talent builder that develops team attributes, furthering departmental goals.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in a job-related field. Master's degree is preferred.
• Equivalent to five years of progressively responsible professional/administrative experience; with three of the five years in progressively responsible development experience, preferably in higher education fundraising and/or prior professional experience in a related field such as sales, marketing or business development.
• Experience in making cold calls and resilience in dealing with initial resistance and rejection is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Leadership

• Proven skills in developing sophisticated strategies in planning, implementing and administering complex major gift solicitations and/or other solicitations of a similar nature, level and complexity.
• Strong documented record of gifts solicited and closed in the special and major gifts range and/or solicitations of a similar nature, level and complexity.
• Skill in motivating colleagues, volunteers and donors.
• Familiarity with prospect screening activities and applications.
• Persuasive oral and written communication skills to prepare and present solicitation strategies, proposals and other marketing materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with faculty, deans, volunteers, and development colleagues campus-wide.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and multi-phase projects simultaneously from inception to completion.
• Skilled in databases, office software and fundraising databases.
• Well-developed organizational skills, focus and a goal-oriented temperament, with a high level of drive and energy; able to exercise initiative and accept responsibility to work proactively and with minimum supervision.
• Demonstrated skill in problem solving and using judgment in situations requiring independent initiative and tact.
• Lead diverse teams to support the operational mission and vision of employers by fostering an ethical, inclusive and collegial work environment.
• Demonstrated ability to support ongoing improvement through courageous, resilient, and catalytic leadership.
• Lead varying initiatives through a collaborative, service-oriented and communicative approach.
• Demonstrated commitment to employee development, recognition, and accountability to further operational goals.