Director for Development

University of Washington•Tacoma, WA

21h•Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Washington Tacoma is seeking a Director for Development. This is a full-time permanent position responsible for developing and executing strategies to solicit gifts for the University of Washington Tacoma. The Director will partner with Deans, faculty, academic and student affairs leaders, and volunteers to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors. This role is accountable for directing fundraising initiatives for assigned schools, units, and programs.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree AND five (5) years of experience in development/advancement, with an emphasis on frontline fundraising, stewarding and soliciting major gifts.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in major gift fundraising, with a strong understanding of the full donor engagement process, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Proven ability to build and maintain donor-centered relationships based on trust, credibility, and long-term partnership.
Experience working toward clearly defined fundraising goals and activity metrics, with the ability to track progress, manage performance expectations, and use data to inform strategy.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to navigate differing perspectives and resolve conflict through open, respectful dialogue.
High ethical standards and sound judgment, with a commitment to integrity, transparency, and responsible fundraising practices.
Effective critical thinking and decision-making skills, particularly in complex or evolving situations.
Familiarity with donor databases and fundraising systems.

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of philanthropic prospects, focusing on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors who have the capacity to make major gifts.
Identify and qualify new donor prospects using research tools, donor information, and professional networks, including prospects interested in planned giving.
Engage donors and prospects through meaningful interactions, primarily face-to-face, and translate those conversations into clear, actionable cultivation and solicitation plans.
Prepare, submit, and follow through on major gift proposals, including solicitations of $100,000 or more, aligned with fundraising priorities.
Work within an established fundraising metrics and accountability framework, managing activity levels, proposals, progress toward goals, and reporting regularly on results.
Work collaboratively with advancement colleagues across the University to coordinate donor engagement, prepare briefing materials, and support solicitation efforts.
Prepare proposals, gift agreements, and supporting materials in coordination with advancement and gift services colleagues, ensuring accurate documentation and timely donor acknowledgment.
Engage volunteers and advisory board members, when appropriate, to support fundraising and donor relationships.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records and participate in prospect tracking using the University of Washington’s donor database.
Stay informed about fundraising priorities and work with campus leaders and advancement colleagues to support gifts for both immediate and long-term impact.
Develop and lead fundraising strategies for assigned schools, units, and academic and student affairs programs, using best practices to meet established goals; provide strategic guidance to shape and advance philanthropic priorities.
Create and implement an annual fundraising plan that outlines clear goals, strategies, and priorities, and track progress throughout the year.
Design and carry out development programs and targeted fundraising initiatives that support sustained and increased philanthropic support.
Regularly evaluate fundraising programs, assess progress toward goals, and share clear updates on outcomes and impact.
Effectively communicate and advocate for UW Tacoma’s mission, priorities, and funding needs to donors and community partners.
Represent UW Tacoma at donor engagements, campus events, and relevant professional gatherings.
Support marketing and communications efforts by identifying compelling stories and opportunities that highlight fundraising priorities and impact.
Perform other duties as assigned.