Director of Development, Athletics

University of Louisiana, Lafayette•Lafayette, LA

About The Position

The Director of Development reports to the Senior Director of Development and executes the major gift efforts for the Ragin’ Cajuns Athletic Foundation (RCAF). This position is primarily responsible for managing a portfolio of prospective donors and reaching both individual and team fundraising goals. Will be required to work occasional evenings and weekends throughout the year, as well as travel on a frequent basis.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree is required
2-3 or more years of experience, with a preference given to a background in fundraising, especially major gift fundraising
Excellent computer, verbal and written communication, as well as customer service skills necessary
Superior interpersonal and collaborative skills
Capable of crafting proposals and other professional documentation
Self-motivated with the ability to achieve goals and metrics
Ability to both prioritize given assignments and multi-task effectively
Ability to work collaboratively and follow organization rules and guidelines
Ability to think critically and exercise sound judgment and decision making

Nice To Haves

preference given to a background in fundraising, especially major gift fundraising

Responsibilities

Serve as a full-time fundraiser securing gifts and pledges of $25,000 or more
Manage a portfolio of 125-175 major gift prospects, develop effective moves management strategies, and lead prospects through the qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship cycle
Research, discover, and qualify new major gift prospects for Athletics
Implement strategies aimed to increase major gifts for Athletics and assigned sports (capital projects, unrestricted support, endowments, planned gifts, etc.) for the RCAF
Work collaboratively and at the direction of other Office of Development professionals to ensure compliance with policies and procedures and coordinate major gift donor efforts
Make phone calls and other introductory contacts to secure appointments with prospects in order to solicit major gifts for the RCAF
Solicits prospects for Premium Seating and RCAF Annual Fund as assigned
Work with RCAF/Athletics/University staff to secure pertinent information for writing and creating donor giving opportunities, solicitations/proposals and stewardship reports
Negotiate gifts and pledges in accordance with adopted gift acceptance policies and procedures; submits appropriate materials to accurately record gifts and pledges in donor database
Run reports and analyze data to monitor personal metrics and take action to achieve goals
Travels locally, regionally, and nationally to meet with qualified prospective donors based on their ability and inclination to make gifts.
Prepare and enter call reports in a timely manner.
Maintain accuracy of records by providing updates for donor database and following established protocols for use of data
Work with Senior Director to develop performance goals and priorities on an annual basis
Actively participate in RCAF and Office of Development staff meetings and retreats
Other duties as assigned