"Director of Development"

Job Summary

Under the direction of the AVP of Development, the Director of Development (DoD) is dedicated to fundraising for the College of Optometry. The DoD will report to the Assistant Vice President of Development (AVP) and collaborate with the AVP to ensure strategies are effectively implemented. The DoD creates and implements programs of engagement between the University/college(s) and external constituencies to encourage major gifts and principal gifts totaling $250,000+ per year. The DoD will ensure the success of multiple fundraising projects, develop annual goals, work with college deans to secure and sustain support from prospective donors, including alumni, friends, employees, corporations, business, and foundations. Maintains a portfolio of top prospective donors; develops a solicitation and stewardship plan for those in assigned portfolio.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Major Gift Mastery & Moves Management: Proven ability to close major/principal gifts; maintain a rigorous, data‑driven moves management process and high‑activity cadence.
• Strategic Fundraising & Alignment: Expertise in building and executing fundraising plans aligned with institutional priorities, academic program needs, and campaign goals.
• Comprehensive Advancement Knowledge: Broad understanding of individual, corporate, and foundation fundraising; donor relations, stewardship, alumni engagement, and pipeline development.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Ability to lead through influence, mentor volunteers/staff, and partner effectively with deans, faculty, and senior administrators to advance fundraising outcomes.
• Advanced Communication: Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal skills; persuasive proposal writing; skilled in donor meetings and executive‑level briefings.
• Project & Portfolio Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize across multiple initiatives, manage complex projects, and deliver results against ambitious goals.
• Data & Systems Proficiency: Skilled with advancement CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, RENXT, Banner) and productivity tools; comfortable analyzing metrics and translating insights into action.
• Ethics, Confidentiality, and Compliance: Commitment to CASE‑aligned ethical standards, Donor Bill of Rights, and confidentiality requirements, including FERPA and HIPAA.
• Analytical & Critical Thinking: Strong organizational, analytical, and decision‑making skills; adept at identifying risks, solving problems, and optimizing processes.
• Digital Fundraising & Integrated Campaigns: Familiarity with online giving, email, social media, and content strategies that enhance donor acquisition, retention, and stewardship.
• Informed Donor Engagement: Ability to engage diverse donor communities with cultural competence and inclusive practices that reflect WesternU’s values.
• Bring Your Best Self to Work: Consistently demonstrate respect, compassion, and integrity in interactions with colleagues, donors, and partners; foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive workplace culture.
• Demonstrate a commitment to working in an organization that values and promotes humanism. Sustain a pioneering culture of bold innovation, courage, and passion. Display a collaborative mindset in how we operate, educate, and serve others. Achieve excellence in all we do.

Required Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required.

Experience:

• 4 years of fundraising experience including closing major gifts from individuals.
• Has a proven track record in setting and achieving ambitious goals.
• Excellent written, oral and presentation skills required.

Classification Pay Scale

In compliance with SB 1162, Western University of Health Sciences is providing a pay scale for this position. The pay scale reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for this position. Within this range, the individual pay is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, and work location. Please note that the compensation details listed reflects the base salary only.

Expected Pay Scale

• Minimum: $115,000.00 Annually
• Maximum: $125,000.00 Annually

Posting Number: A00968
Campus:
Department: 5501-External Relations
Posting Date: 02/05/2026
Closing Date: 2/5/2027

To apply, visit https://jobs.westernu.edu/postings/35467