Associate Director of Development

University of Florida • Gainesville, FL

14d • $65,000 - $75,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Director of Development is responsible for managing a portfolio of fundraising prospects, developing and implementing strategies for securing major gifts, and assisting in directing a fundraising program for PK Yonge Developmental Research School. This role involves building and maintaining relationships with donors, collaborating with various teams to develop fundraising strategies, and writing proposals and other documents to inspire giving. The position also requires administrative duties such as documenting donor interactions, ensuring office best practices, and managing a travel budget for maximum return on investment.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and one year of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and three years of relevant experience.
• A valid Florida driver license is required.

Nice To Haves

• Three to five years fundraising experience with proven success soliciting gifts of $25,000 and up strongly preferred.
• Experience in development, alumni affairs, education, public relations, external affairs and/or higher education.
• Prior experience in a college or university setting, enthusiasm for fundraising in a comprehensive research university and the desire to work collegially within a goal-oriented fundraising organization.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards.
• Expertise in developing solicitation strategies.
• Demonstrated accomplishment in fostering productive relationships with volunteers and developing volunteer leadership.
• The ability to work strategically, implement and build constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers.
• Ability to work collaboratively and as a team player.
• Competency in problem solving.
• Strong organization skills with a focus on detail and fiscal oversight are imperative.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential.
• Support the University’s commitment to creating a respectful and collaborative work environment that values integrity, professionalism, and mutual respect in all interactions; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential.
• Proficient in the following areas: Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms.
• Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred.
• The ability and willingness to travel.
• A valid driver’s license and good driving record are essential.
• The ability to pay for expenses using your own personal credit card or funds and have them reimbursed is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategy for securing major gifts for college campaign priorities.
• Build and maintain a portfolio of fundraising prospects at the major gift ($100,000+) level and strategically manage relationships through face-to-face visits to bring gift solicitations to closure.
• Set and implement strategies for identification, qualification, relationship-building, and solicitation to close and steward major gifts for the college.
• Assist in directing and developing a fundraising program for PK Yonge Developmental Research School.
• Maximize travel plans to strategic geographic regions for major gift solicitations and donor engagement.
• Attend COE and UF Advancement functions to identify new individuals and further engage existing prospects.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the college mission, strategy, and goals as they relate to fundraising.
• Collaborate with the Office of Estate and Gift Planning team to develop and implement a strategy for securing deferred gifts.
• Collaborate with college faculty and program directors to understand and formulate priorities and fundable opportunities.
• Partner with College Education’s Advancement team to support all team-led events for Advancement and the College of Education.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Leadership Annual Giving (LAG) team liaison to cultivate donors likely to make a gift under the major gift threshold as well as mentor the LAG team member.
• Write gift proposals, concept papers, and other documents that will help to inspire donors to give generously to support the college.
• Document all donor interaction and outreach in the donor database.
• Ensure best practices in office systems, practices, files, and record keeping.
• Handle confidential prospect information with discretion and to the highest ethical standards.
• Contribute to the planning and monitoring of the budget, using resources for best results in fundraising.
• Serve as fund administrator on own travel budget ensuring maximum ROI for monies spent.
• Perform related duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions related to this position.

What This Job Offers

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