Associate Director of Development

Sonoran University of Health Sciences • Tempe, AZ

84d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Development is a key leader within the Development team, serving as both a high-level donor strategist and an operational partner in campaign execution. Acting as the second in command to the Director of Development & Alumni Relations, this role plays a central part in driving individual giving, deepening donor relationships, and leading innovative funding partnerships that advance the organization's mission. This position blends strategic thinking with implementation agility, offering a unique opportunity to shape community-based initiatives, major giving campaigns, and alumni engagement programs.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising or donor strategy
• Proven success cultivating and closing mid-to-high level gifts
• Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and project leadership skills
• Experience with grant writing, campaign management, and CRM systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce)
• Experience with higher education and/or healthcare fundraising

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements giving strategies for mid-level donors ($1k-$25k)
• Builds long-term relationships through personalized stewardship and cultivation plans
• Oversees planned giving, donor upgrade pathways, and targeted solicitation efforts
• Partners with the Director to shape donor communication frameworks and campaigns
• Assists Director with major donor strategies
• Leads efforts to identify, build, and maintain strategic relationships across the community
• Works closely with external partners, alumni networks, and corporate sponsors
• Designs partnership models that align with institutional priorities and donor interests
• Leads the strategy and execution of select giving campaigns and initiatives
• Manages grant applications, proposals, and reporting. Authors and leads team on execution of grants.
• Collaborates with team members to align fundraising efforts across channels
• Acts as a thought partner and strategic advisor to the Director of Development & Alumni Relations
• Supports planning processes, team-wide goal setting, and cross-functional collaboration
• Serves as a mentor and connector within the development team

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Vacation time
• 12 paid holidays
• 401(k) plan with a discretionary match
• Employer-sponsored life, AD&D, and long-term disability coverage
• Paid sick time
• Access to Aflac
• Free office visits at our Medical Center and Neil Riordan Center
• Discounts at the largest medicinary in the Southwest
• Savings at Early Bird Vegan, onsite café
• Access to a fully equipped employee breakroom with a full kitchen and snacks
• Free personalized nutritional care
• Yoga studio and fitness center
• Covered parking
• Access to library resources
• Employee recognition program (Bonusly)
• Flexible hybrid work environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree