Dir, Principal Gifts

Harvard University - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - Cambridge, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Director, Principal Gifts at Harvard Business School (HBS) is a senior fundraising role responsible for securing significant philanthropic commitments, specifically seven-figure gifts, to support the School's mission. This position involves managing a portfolio of approximately 125 households, developing donor-centered fundraising strategies, and collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance engagement and maximize philanthropy. The role is integral to the External Relations team, which focuses on fostering lifelong relationships with alumni and inspiring philanthropy that supports HBS's educational goals.

Responsibilities

• Manage the qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of approximately 125 households.
• Develop strategies to maximize philanthropy to HBS from their portfolio.
• Engage in the development and execution of strategic engagement activities to support development objectives.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the External Relations organization, the School, and the University.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• At least 7+ years of frontline fundraising or related experience is required.
• Strong command of fundraising principles, including experience with annual giving and planned giving.
• Proven fundraising track record that includes directly soliciting, negotiating, and closing six and seven-figure gifts, preferably in an academic setting.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to relate to donors, volunteers, and colleagues.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, detail-orientation, and ability to self-motivate.
• High level of emotional intelligence and curiosity.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a complex and highly matrixed organization.
• Ability to think creatively and be open to new ideas.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year.
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January.
• Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, and campus events.