Executive Director of Philanthropy, Central Major Gifts

Executive Director of Philanthropy, Central Major Gifts

About the Company

Influential public research university

Industry
Higher Education

Type
Educational Institution

Founded
1887

Employees
10,001+

Categories

• Colleges & Universities
• Education
• Higher Education
• North Carolina
• North Carolina State University
• Raleigh
• U.N.C. Chapel Hill
• Non Profit
• Universities

Specialties

• science
• technology
• engineering
• agriculture
• life sciences
• veterinary medicine
• textiles
• natural resources
• humanities
• social science
• management
• design
• research
• graduate education
• and analytics and data science

About the Role

The Company is seeking an Executive Director of Philanthropy for Central Major Gifts. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to secure financial support from a portfolio of donors and prospects. This includes the full cycle of major gift fundraising, from identification to stewardship. The role involves growing the major gifts program, building a pipeline of individual major gift donors, and working closely with university leadership and development colleagues to meet institutional goals. The Executive Director will also be charged with planning and representing university-wide fundraising initiatives and will serve as a mentor and coach to the central major gifts staff. Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 7 years relevant experience, with a proven track record in securing major gifts and a strong background in fundraising principles and ethics. The role requires excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with key stakeholders. A collaborative and team-oriented approach to fundraising is essential. While not mandatory, a post-baccalaureate degree, volunteer management experience, and a background in higher education fundraising are preferred. The position demands a high level of commitment, including regular travel and the ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Hiring Manager Title
Assistant Vice Chancellor for University Development

Travel Percent
Less than 10%

Functions

• CEO/President
• Non-Profit Management
• Operations
• General Management
• Strategy