University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. · 2 weeks ago
Director of Gift Planning
Knoxville, TN
Full-time
Hybrid
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
5+ years expThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is seeking a Director of Gift Planning for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This role is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of planned gifts that benefit various colleges and units across the Knoxville campus.
AssociationLegalNon Profit
No H1B
Responsibilities
Identify, assess, and qualify prospective donors for outright, blended, and deferred planned gifts through portfolio management, research, and ongoing engagement
Cultivate relationships with donors, their families, and professional advisors by articulating the impact of philanthropy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop donor-centered strategies that align donor intent with university priorities
Develop and present donor-centric proposals of $50,000 or more that emphasize planned giving vehicles such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, and charitable remainder trusts
Lead solicitation and negotiation efforts in partnership with advancement colleagues, serving as a technical advisor on complex and blended gifts
Work closely with UTFI and professional advisors to structure, document, and close gifts in compliance with university and Foundation policies
Ensure effective stewardship through timely acknowledgements, accurate documentation, and ongoing communication that reinforces donor impact and trust
Coordinate with UTFI staff to record, track, and administer planned gifts, including estate distributions and charitable trusts
Maintain long-term relationships with donors and internal partners through reporting, forecasting, and consistent follow-up to sustain and grow the planned giving pipeline
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree
5+ years of experience in a higher education environment or related experience in tax, estates, trusts, gift advisory, or legal services, financial services, frontline fundraising, or sales
A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required due to travel responsibilities of the position
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status
Preferred
7+ years of planned giving experience in a higher education environment or non-profit organization
Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
Demonstrated knowledge of planned giving strategies and techniques, estate processes, and the administration of planned gifts
Excellent telephone manner, strong verbal and written communication, and a capacity to build strong relationships with prospective and existing donors
Possession of Professional Certifications and Designations such as: Certified Estate and Trust Specialist (CES™); Certified Estate Planner (CEP®); Certified Financial Planner (CFP®); Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE®); Certified Public Accountant (CPA); LL.M in Tax, Wealth Management, or Estate Planning; MLS in Wealth Management; or Graduate Certificate in Law – Wealth Management or Estate Planning
Benefits
Generous paid leave , accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days
Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members
Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods
Company
University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc.
The Foundation’s mission is to raise financial, public and political support for the University of Tennessee.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageRecent News
2025-09-12
Sports Business Journal
2025-07-04
Company data provided by crunchbase