Director of Development
About The Position
The Director of Development pursues fundraising opportunities through major gifts, grassroots and annual fundraising initiatives, including donor solicitation, cultivation and stewardship, to maintain a strong base of ongoing financial support for the College. The role also plans and executes special events for the Ivy Tech Foundation and other signature College events. The position develops and implements a comprehensive fundraising portfolio, builds long-term relationships with donors and partners, coordinates donor stewardship, and maintains accurate records in the Foundation’s CRM system. It also contributes to statewide Foundation initiatives and collaborates with the Director of Grant Development and Strategies on funding opportunities aligned with campus priorities. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with evening and weekend work as needed. Travel is required throughout the Fort Wayne service area, with occasional travel to Indianapolis and other Indiana campuses. The role may involve climbing ladders and repeatedly lifting up to 30 pounds to support event logistics.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- A minimum of 3–5 years of experience in fundraising, securing gifts and sponsorships, prospect development related to donor research, and event planning.
- Proven experience cultivating and managing relationships with executive leaders, donors, and community partners.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent writing and editing skills with close attention to detail.
- Proficiency with CRM/database management systems.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Teams.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently with minimal daily direct supervision related to assigned tasks.
- Ability to attend events and meetings outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Ability to travel as needed throughout the Fort Wayne service area; occasional travel to Indianapolis and other campuses around Indiana may be required.
- Physical ability to climb ladders, repeatedly lift up to 30 pounds, and support event logistics.
- Demonstrated commitment to promoting an environment where every individual feels respected and valued.
- Selected candidate must undergo pre-employment background checks, including criminal history checks; an offer is contingent on the outcome.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising portfolio by identifying and cultivating major gift prospects, foundations, and industry partners, building long-term relationships aligned with College and Foundation priorities.
- Plan and execute friend-raising and fundraising events, including Ivy Tech Day, A Reason to Taste, the Chancellors’ Merit Scholarship luncheon, and the faculty/staff giving campaign.
- Reimagine and host the Scholarship donor recognition event.
- Collaborate with the Director of Grant Development and Strategies on funding opportunities for priorities established by campus leadership, faculty, and staff.
- Coordinate stewardship plans to strengthen donor engagement and retention.
- Maintain accurate donor records in the Foundation’s CRM system and ensure compliance with Foundation policies, IRS regulations, and fundraising best practices.
- Participate in statewide Foundation initiatives and share best practices with peers across campuses.
- Perform other duties logically associated with the position as assigned.
Benefits
- Multiple medical plan options with a Health Savings Account and employer contribution
- Dental plan with no-cost preventive services and orthodontia coverage
- Vision plan with low-cost exams and allowances for glasses or contact lenses
- Employee Assistance Program with confidential counseling, legal consultations, financial planning consultations, and other resources
- Wellness program with opportunities to earn $250 in Wellness Rewards
- Healthcare (limited-purpose) and dependent-care Flexible Spending Accounts
- 10% employer retirement contribution, fully vested after two years
- Basic life insurance equal to annual salary, paid by the College, with optional supplemental coverage
- Short-term and long-term disability benefits
- Fee remission for employees, spouses, and dependent children
- Tuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
- Paid professional development opportunities
- Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, holidays, and winter recess
- Flexible work arrangements where available
- Paid childbirth recovery leave (8 weeks)
- Paid parental leave (4 weeks)
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- Discounts on gym memberships, transportation, and various retail services
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
