Associate Director of Development

Rice University•Houston, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Development is responsible for managing a portfolio of major gift donors and advancing philanthropic support for Rice University through strategic fundraising initiatives. The role identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donor prospects, targeting philanthropic commitments of $25,000 to $100,000+ across all schools and programs. Responsibilities include developing and executing data-informed engagement strategies, aligning donor interests with institutional priorities, and contributing to overall fundraising performance. By the end of the second year, the position is expected to maintain an active portfolio of 85 to 100 prospects and achieve annual fundraising outcomes of $500,000 to $750,000 or more. The position works collaboratively with development colleagues, faculty, and cross-functional partners and reports to the Senior Director of Development. The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial and focused fundraiser who is successful in engaging high-capacity prospects in ways that lead to closing significant gifts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree
Two or more (2+) years of successful professional fundraising or equivalent experience with a demonstrated track record of soliciting, closing and stewarding gifts of $25,000+
Ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal development and presentation
Ability to analyze information and apply insights to inform strategy and decision-making
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
Proficiency with CRM systems and standard office software
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment
High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail
Must possess (or have the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) and maintain a valid Texas driver’s license with no more than three moving violations and/or at fault accidents within the past 36 months, and no convictions or deferred dispositions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the past five years.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education or nonprofit fundraising environments
Experience supporting or contributing to capital campaigns or major gift initiatives
Exposure to planned giving, corporate, or foundation fundraising
Familiarity with donor management systems and reporting tools
Experience managing a donor or prospect portfolio
Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) credential or equivalent experience
Interest in or appreciation for Rice University’s mission and programs

Responsibilities

Manages a portfolio of major gift prospects through identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship
Develops and implements strategies to advance donor relationships and achieve fundraising goals
Secures philanthropic commitments in the range of $25,000 to $100,000 or more
Builds and maintains relationships with donors, alumni, faculty, and university leadership
Prepares and presents proposals that align donor interests with institutional priorities
Collaborates with colleagues across Development and Alumni Relations and academic units to coordinate engagement strategies
Maintains accurate and timely documentation of activity in CRM systems
Monitors performance against established metrics and adjusts strategies as needed
Supports departmental and university-wide fundraising initiatives
Performs all other duties as assigned
Travels locally, regionally, and nationally to support donor engagement
Participates in evening and weekend activities as required
Represents the university in interactions with external audiences, including donors and alumni
Engages regularly with internal partners and university stakeholders