Development Director,​ College of Health and College of Science

University of Montana Foundation • Missoula, MT

14h • Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Montana Foundation seeks an experienced, relationship-driven fundraising professional to serve as Director of Development for the College of Health and College of Science. This is a frontline major gift fundraising position focused on building relationships with alumni and donors and inspiring philanthropic gifts to enhance education, scientific discovery, and health innovation. The College of Health advances health and well-being through education, research, and service, preparing future healthcare leaders while addressing complex health challenges facing communities across Montana and beyond. The College of Science is home to outstanding faculty whose work expands knowledge, drives discovery, and leverages Montana’s diverse landscapes for hands-on experiential learning. Together, these colleges offer donors opportunities to invest in transformative research, student success, and initiatives that improve lives and strengthen our communities. Working closely with the deans and other academic partners, the Director will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors capable of making significant philanthropic investments. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic and intellectually engaging environment, translating complex research, educational, and health initiatives into compelling opportunities for donor impact. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping donors connect their passions with opportunities that create lasting change. Success requires initiative, curiosity, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate a complex university environment while advancing multiple priorities and relationships simultaneously.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Five or more years of development experience preferably in higher education, healthcare, the sciences, or a similar complex field
• Proficient use of Microsoft Suite of applications and database software application

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated success building relationships that lead to philanthropic investments
• Quickly learns and synthesizes complex information and can confidently discuss research, academic programs, and emerging opportunities with diverse audiences
• Takes initiative, identifies opportunities and advances projects independently while collaborating effectively across teams.
• Possesses exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust among donors, faculty, and colleagues
• Ability to make decisions in ambiguous situations, exercise good judgment based on information and analysis in a fast-paced, dynamic, deadline-driven environment in an organized and professional manner
• Flexibility, curiosity, and strategic thinking, with an enthusiasm for mission-driven fundraising.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, developing individualized strategies to cultivate, solicit, and steward philanthropic investments.
• Conduct a high volume of meaningful donor visits and engagement activities, building strong relationships that lead to transformational donations.
• Maintain a robust fundraising pipeline and consistently achieve performance metrics related to meetings, proposals, solicitations, and dollars raised.
• Partner with the deans, faculty, and other campus partners to develop compelling funding opportunities and align donor interests with institutional priorities.
• Collaborate with Foundation colleagues across Development, Prospect Research, Stewardship, Marketing and Communications, and Gift Administration to maximize donor engagement and fundraising success.

Benefits

• 403(b) employer contribution of 11%, no employee match required!
• Opportunity for a hybrid remote work arrangement each week
• Four weeks of vacation and 12 days of sick leave per year
• 11 days of holiday leave
• Paid parental leave for new parents
• Medical, dental, vision, wellness program, and short-term and long-term disability pay protection benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Competitive Pay

What This Job Offers

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