Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association · 2 months ago
Director of Development, College of Engineering
US-WI-Madison
Full-time
Hybrid
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
3+ years expThe Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association (WFAA) is seeking a development professional to support the College of Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Director of Development will be responsible for qualifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gift prospects, while working collaboratively within a dynamic development team.
EducationHigher Education
Responsibilities
Develop objectives, priorities and strategies for major gift development related to capital campaigns, special programs, and ongoing fund raising in collaboration with dean/faculty/staff, WFAA vice president and colleagues
Implement development strategies with assigned constituencies, managing a portfolio of prospects and donors in varying stages of involvement to advance them strategically through the development process
Work with prospect management, WFAA research and development colleagues to identify and qualify a portfolio of major gift prospects from existing and potential donors
Schedule and conduct initial assessment/exploratory meetings with prospects, following up with correspondence, phone calls and additional visits as appropriate to qualify prospect
Plan and conduct visits/trips, events and other ongoing contact to build relationships with donors, effectively presenting the case for philanthropic support and explaining gift opportunities
Plan and implement recognition for donors, including writing thank you letters, making personal calls, arranging meetings, hosting events, etc
Plan and implement ongoing communication and stewardship with donors
Communicate, problem solve, and anticipate needs of campus staff regarding accounting for donor created funds and serve as liaison between WFAA accounting department and campus staff
Request data/reports from WFAA staff to meet needs of donors and campus staff
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional work experience
3 + years of professional fundraising/ development experience or related experience
Experience and demonstrated success in fundraising or related activities
Excellent oral, written, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills required
Ability to meet travel requirements (@25%)
Preferred
Post high school training, college degree, or equivalent preferred
Ability to articulate the case for private support with sufficient effectiveness so that individuals understand the vision and strategy of the College and choose to invest in the vision
Ability to work independently, in addition to as a member of an effective development team
Benefits
10% 401k contribution after just one year of service
Company
Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association
WAA offers competitive salaries and benefits in an environment that is inspiring, creative, and respectful.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Mike Knetter
Chief Executive Officer
Paula Bonner
President and CEO
Recent News
2025-06-19
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