Wake Forest University · 1 week ago
Director of Development, Campus Initiatives
Winston-Salem, NC
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
8+ years expWake Forest University is seeking a Director of Development for Campus Initiatives to advance its strategic priorities by securing philanthropic support. This role involves managing a portfolio of prospects, achieving fundraising goals, and collaborating with campus leaders to enhance student life and overall campus experience.
EducationHigher EducationUniversities
No H1B
Responsibilities
Serves as the primary development leader and liaison for assigned campus initiatives and programs, with annual individual fundraising goals of $2M and project goals ranging from $10M–$100M+
Collaborates with campus leaders and partners to translate institutional needs into clearly defined fundable priorities
Works closely with development officers across University Advancement to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major and principal gifts from shared and managed prospects
Develops and implements strategic communication and engagement plans that clearly articulate campus priorities and inspire donor investment
Maintains a strong and current understanding of Wake Forest’s strategic plan, campaign priorities, and evolving philanthropic goals
Maintains accurate donor records and activity reports in the University’s CRM system and consistently tracks progress toward individual and initiative-based fundraising goals
Collaborates with the Donor Experience team to creatively and strategically engage and steward donors, ensuring sustained connection to their philanthropic commitments
Contributes to a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the Advancement division
Demonstrates a passion for leadership and character development in the workplace
Maintains high standards of performance and take pride in contributing to a mission-driven organization
Embraces the opportunity to join a team that is making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree with eight to ten years of fundraising experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
Knowledge and proven history of gaining philanthropic support and financial commitments from others
Knowledge, awareness, and skills related to fundraising in a student affairs/student success context
Ability to identify and secure gifts of non-traditional assets and/or charitable gifts from alternative funding/revenue sources
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituents
Commitment to the mission and values of University Advancement and a commitment to community and belonging with a willingness to proactively learn about it and integrate it into all aspects of the work
Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people
Ability to foster teamwork and cooperation in a work environment
Excellent organizational and time management skills in prioritizing workflow and managing resources
Ability to manage and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
Ability to multi-task and demonstrate sound judgment and discretion
Knowledge of the University policies and procedures, or ability to acquire knowledge in a short period
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google apps, and other relevant software
Ability to research, collect, and analyze data, compile information, and prepare reports
Experience in database management and maintenance
Detail-orientation in coordinating activities
Ability to supervise and train staff, volunteers, and student workers, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments for these individuals/groups
Skill in fiscal management
Knowledge of charitable giving techniques, instruments, and relevant laws
Ability to travel locally and nationally as necessary
Ability to work evenings and weekends as necessary
Should be able to meet requirements of the University's automobile insurance policy
Preferred
Experience in direct fundraising
Experience working in higher education and student affairs or not-for-profit environments
Possesses an understanding of the donor cycle
Knowledge and clear understanding of Wake Forest University, its schools, programs, and administrative units
Previous experience with frequent travel
Company
Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University is a private, independent, nonprofit, non-sectarian, coeducational research university.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$63.9MKey Investors
Lilly EndowmentAmeriCorps Public AlliesNational Institutes of Health
2025-07-10Grant· $30M
2024-10-10Grant· $0.2M
2023-02-23Grant· $3M
Leadership Team
Dedee DeLongpre Johnston
VP, Sustainability (CSO) and Chief of Staff to the Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
Jacqueline Travisano
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Recent News
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