The Director of Development serves as a primary major gift officer for Winona State University, contributing to the success and growth of the University Advancement Division by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors to meet the university’s major gift, capital campaign and planned giving fundraising goals. This position also assists with development and implementation of programs and events sponsored by the University Advancement Division.
Responsibilities:
1. Major Gifts. Manage a portfolio of individual, corporate and foundation donors and prospects with significant giving capacity to accomplish their giving objectives in the form of major and planned gifts. Develop institutionally strong relationships with internal and external constituencies, implementing effective communication strategies, providing options for engagement, and opportunities for benefactors to co-mission with WSU. Participate in all aspects of the gift cycle: work with the development team to identify major donor prospects; initiate contacts with potential major donors; develop appropriate cultivation strategies, including working with volunteers; move potential donors in an appropriate and timely fashion toward solicitation and closure; make solicitations when appropriate; maintain stewardship contacts with donors, all in support of WSU’s mission. Ensure effective coordination of efforts to reinforce the prospect relationship continuum. Follow procedures for tracking and reporting prospect activity and outcomes. Execute and report on quarterly/annual fundraising goals. Convey the university’s goals and make a case for support and build a culture of philanthropy.
2. Program Development. Contribute to goals of the institution’s University Advancement Division by assisting in projects related to marketing, institutional image, alumni, public, community and government relations. Participate in alumni and friend events, regional receptions, recognitions, reunions, homecoming, etc. Participate in Advancement Division team efforts including prospect management, solicitation strategy and internal planning.
3. Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of Winona State University. Including but not limited to participating on university committees to provide development perspective and keeping current on programs and faculty and student initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree plus two (2) years of experience in marketing, public relations, sales, annual giving, and/or fundraising OR five (5) years of demonstrated, progressive experience in marketing, public relations, sales, annual giving, and/or fundraising.
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Strong oral, written interpersonal and electronic communication skills sufficient to prepare messages and materials for diverse audiences and clearly explain, discuss, and present.
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Experience establishing and maintaining effective relationships with diverse populations.
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Must have a valid driver’s license.
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Must be willing to travel and work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.
Preferred Qualification
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Experience in higher education or non-profit organization.
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Successful experience in developing, documenting and presenting cultivation and solicitation strategies/proposals.
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Experience developing stewardship strategies that convey the University’s thanks to its constituents in a way that inspires donor loyalty
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Ability to communicate a strong affinity for the University, its mission, vision, and goals.
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Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
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Self-motivated professional who can work collaboratively in a team environment.
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Evidence of ability to motivate others.
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Experience with databases and records management, spreadsheets and benchmarking techniques.
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Experience maintaining the integrity of highly confidential information.