Associate Director of Development or Director of Development (Administrator I or II)
About The Position
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: California State University (CSU), Chico is a comprehensive and residential public university, holding Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation. Chico State operates as part of the 23-campus CSU system, which educates the most ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student body in the nation. The University enrolls over 15,000 students, with over half identifying as first-generation college students. Chico State is committed to recruiting outstanding candidates. The ideal candidate will embrace our values predicated on the primacy of student success and the elimination of equity gaps, have demonstrated experience working with diverse populations, and will contribute to policies, programs, and practices that support an inclusive, accessible, and equitable learning and working environment. Black, Indigenous, People of Color, veterans, and those with diverse abilities are encouraged to apply. Job/Department Summary: Administrator I: The Associate Director of Development is responsible for managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and securing philanthropic support for the University. The Associate Director will focus on qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of making gifts of $25,000 or more, with a minimum annual fundraising goal of $250,000 depending on factors such as experience level and strength of the donor portfolio. This position plays a critical role in building and strengthening the donor pipeline, engaging alumni and community stakeholders, and advancing the mission and strategic priorities of the institution. Administrator II: The Director of Development is a front-line fundraiser responsible for managing a robust portfolio of major and leadership gift prospects, cultivating donor relationships, and securing philanthropic commitments, with an emphasis on gifts in excess of $100,000. The Director is expected to raise a minimum of $1 million annually, working closely with academic and administrative leaders to advance strategic University priorities. This position plays a key role in strengthening the donor pipeline, engaging key stakeholders, and supporting the long-term success of the institution’s fundraising efforts.
Requirements
- Administrator I: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Demonstrated ability to cultivate and solicit gifts or close comparable sales.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal).
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work both independently and collaboratively.
- Willingness and ability to travel to meet with donors; occasional evening/weekend work required.
- Administrator II: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Direct fundraising experience, with demonstrated success managing a portfolio and securing major gifts.
- Proven track record of cultivating, soliciting, and closing gifts at the $25,000+ level.
- Exceptional relationship-building skills, strategic thinking, and donor-centric communication abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects, travel frequently, and work evenings/weekends as needed.
- Strong competency with donor management systems (CRM) and prospect strategy.
- Willingness and ability to travel frequently to meet with donors; occasional evening/weekend work required.
Nice To Haves
- Preference may be given to applicants with the following as they may be considered specialized skills:
- Chico State Alumni
- Local (as opposed to remote)
- Minimum of one year of experience in fundraising, sales, relationship management, or related field.
- Experience in higher education advancement or nonprofit fundraising.
- Track record of securing gifts or commitments at the $5,000+ level.
- Familiarity with donor databases/CRM systems and prospect research tools.
- Knowledge of philanthropy best practices and donor stewardship principles.
Benefits
- This position qualifies for benefits including tuition fee waiver (if eligible).
- CSU, Chico offers a number of benefits to its employees (e.g., sick leave, vacation, health insurance).
- For more information please visit https://www.calstate.edu/csu-system/careers/benefits/Documents/employee-benefits-summary.pdf
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
