Assistant/Associate Director of Leadership Gifts

Vassar College • Poughkeepsie, NY

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Vassar College is seeking an Assistant/Associate Director of Leadership Gifts to join their Advancement Department. This role reports to the Senior Director of Leadership Gifts and is responsible for managing a portfolio of donors, cultivating relationships, soliciting major gifts, and stewarding donor contributions. The position involves working with specific regional territories and collaborating with various campus partners, faculty, and volunteers to achieve institutional growth. The role requires travel and occasional weekend work for events.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with at least three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license for at least 2 years.
• Demonstrated success in identifying, cultivating, and closing major gifts with individual donors.
• Proven ability to build authentic, long-term relationships with diverse constituents, including faculty, alumni, and community members.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience utilizing CRM databases for gift tracking and donor management.
• Ability to engage comfortably with individuals from diverse backgrounds and interests.
• Ability to travel frequently.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with and understanding of a four-year institution of higher education.
• Track record of success in fundraising, financial services, marketing/sales, or educational management.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 175 prospects and donors, driving institutional growth through face-to-face cultivation and the solicitation of major and deferred gifts.
• Travel 7-10 days each month on behalf of the College to meet with current and prospective donors.
• Drive annual support for the Vassar Fund by securing consistent gifts ranging from $1,500 to $50,000.
• Partner with faculty and Advancement colleagues to cultivate a robust donor pipeline, aligning philanthropic support with institutional priorities and strategic campaign goals.
• Ensure meticulous record-keeping and personalized follow-up for all donor interactions in accordance with office protocols.
• Develop and maintain a thorough knowledge of Vassar College, its history, people, programs, initiatives, and current priorities.
• Attend and support engagement events and donor relations activities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level