Director of Development (Administrator I)

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

9d • $100,000 - $110,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

San Diego State University is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Director of Development to support fundraising efforts that advance key university priorities. Reporting to the Executive Director of Development, this role focuses on cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts of $100,000 or more from individuals, corporations, and foundations in support of the Fowler College of Business and other university initiatives. The Director of Development will build strong partnerships with faculty, administrators, alumni, and community leaders to identify philanthropic opportunities and develop meaningful donor relationships. Through strategic engagement and thoughtful stewardship, this role helps secure private support that enhances student success, faculty research, and innovative programs across the university.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• A minimum of five (5) years of major gifts fundraising or closely related experience managing high-value, relationship-based revenue portfolios is required, along with demonstrated success closing high-value, relationship-based commitments of $100,000 or more, either as a one-time gift or cumulatively over a five-year period, preferably in a philanthropic setting.
• Proven experience in all facets of development including gift administration, gift acceptance, prospect management, research, annual giving, volunteer management, and communications.
• Demonstrated success as a development professional in a donor-centered fundraising environment.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic and evolving organizational setting.
• Demonstrated success in providing volunteer leadership.
• Ability to interpret biographical, corporate, and foundation information.
• Ability to represent the university and development division professionally to internal and external constituencies.
• Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in fundraising within a large, complex university or nonprofit organization, including participation in comprehensive or capital campaigns.
• Experience with planned giving programs or related advancement and relationship-based development work.
• Demonstrated commitment to higher education and philanthropy, with the ability to articulate a compelling case for philanthropic support of a public institution of higher education.
• Advanced degree in a related field.

Responsibilities

• Major Gift Fundraising and Donor Engagement Develop and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors.
• Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individuals, corporations, and foundations in support of SDSU priorities.
• Conduct donor meetings and cultivation visits to strengthen relationships and advance philanthropic opportunities.
• Prepare compelling proposals, grant requests, and case materials that communicate the impact of philanthropic support.
• Represent SDSU and University Development in a professional and engaging manner with internal and external partners.
• Development Strategy and Collaboration Partner with faculty, academic leaders, and volunteers to identify philanthropic priorities and align fundraising strategies.
• Work closely with central development teams including prospect research, planned giving, corporate and foundation relations, and annual giving.
• Develop short- and long-term development strategies and fundraising plans in collaboration with leadership.
• Assist with advisory board engagement and development activities for assigned units.
• Donor Stewardship and Relationship Management Steward donors across all levels within the assigned portfolio to strengthen long-term engagement and giving.
• Maintain accurate donor records and prospect activity within the university’s development CRM system.
• Coordinate donor communications, acknowledgements, and stewardship initiatives.
• Attend university and donor engagement events, including occasional evenings or weekends.

Benefits

• Generous Leave Benefits: Enjoy 15 paid holidays, 24 vacation days, and 12 sick days per year.
• Retirement Security: Benefit from a CalPERS defined benefit pension plan, with reciprocity with the UC Retirement Plan, plus retiree healthcare benefits.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access a variety of health, dental, and vision plans at no or low cost to you.
• Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of the California State University system fee reduction program for yourself or a qualified dependent.
• Voluntary Benefits: Opt into additional benefits like Auto & Home Insurance, Life and Disability Insurances, a Legal Plan, Pet Insurance, and the ScholarShare 529 Plan for college savings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director