Director of Development (Major Gifts)

Community College System of New Hampshire•Concord, NH

About The Position

The Director of Development is the frontline fundraising leader for the Foundation, aligning development initiatives with its mission, vision, and strategic priorities across seven community colleges. Reporting to the Chief Advancement Officer & Executive Director, the Director secures major philanthropic support from individuals, businesses and industry leaders, civic leaders, alumni, private and corporate foundations, faculty, staff, and retirees. The Director manages a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, leads major gift strategy and execution, and drives revenue growth through relationship-based fundraising. Working closely with college leadership and Foundation colleagues, the Director sets strategic direction and develops fundable opportunities that advance student success, workforce development, and access to education. The role requires regular travel across New Hampshire and occasional early-morning and evening meetings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least 5 years of professional fundraising experience.
Demonstrated success in major gifts, individual giving, or corporate philanthropy.
Proven record of soliciting and closing significant gifts, including gifts of transformational scope, budget significance, or campaign-level support.
Experience managing a donor portfolio and advancing prospects through the giving cycle.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education, community colleges, or multi-site organizations.
Experience with campaign fundraising or building major gift programs.
Familiarity with Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) systems.
Experience engaging business and corporate partners.
Experience working with volunteers and advisory groups.
Exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strategic thinking and the ability to translate priorities into fundable opportunities.
Ability to work independently and effectively within a small, collaborative advancement team.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

Manage a high-level portfolio of individual and corporate prospects and donors with potential interest in the Foundation’s mission and the capacity to give.
Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors using a strategic moves-management approach.
Conduct regular in-person and virtual donor visits to advance relationships and secure major, principal, and planned gifts.
Develop and execute individualized solicitation strategies, including preparing and presenting proposals.
Partner with the Chief Advancement Officer & Executive Director on strategy and execution for top-tier donor relationships and solicitations.
Build and maintain a robust prospect pipeline across New Hampshire.
Lead portfolio performance and moves-management strategy, ensuring prospects progress through the giving cycle.
Collaborate with Advancement Services to use prospect research, data insights, and CRM tools to inform strategy and track outcomes.
Partner with college leadership to identify funding priorities and develop donor-ready opportunities.
Translate institutional needs into compelling cases for support aligned with Foundation and campaign priorities.
Provide the Chief Advancement Officer & Executive Director with input on donor interests, market trends, and funding opportunities.
Develop and manage relationships with business leaders and corporate partners to advance philanthropic investment.
Represent the Foundation as an ambassador across the state, engaging community stakeholders and expanding awareness of its mission.
Participate in strategic community engagements and meetings to strengthen donor relationships and identify prospects.
Lead stewardship for major donors in the portfolio and support the broader donor stewardship program, including impact reporting and communications.
Connect donors with programs, students, and outcomes that demonstrate impact.
Collaborate with campus leadership and Foundation colleagues to align fundraising strategies and opportunities across the community college system.
Support system-wide campaign initiatives and serve as a lead solicitor for major and leadership gifts.
Contribute to internal communications and efforts that promote a culture of philanthropy across the colleges.
Participate in Foundation team meetings, planning efforts, and professional development activities.
Engage with Foundation leadership and, as appropriate, support board-related activities and donor engagement opportunities.
Ensure adherence to Foundation, System, State, and Federal policies and regulations related to fundraising and charitable giving.
Perform additional duties within the scope of the role as assigned by the Executive Director.