Director of Development

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Development plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering at the University of Florida. This position leads strategic fundraising efforts for the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), focusing on securing major gifts for the assigned departments withing the college. Reporting to the Senior Director of Development Administration, you will design and execute initiatives that align with UF’s and the college’s bold vision—fueling research, education, and innovation. The college produces inventions at twice the national average – and startups at five times the national average – for every research dollar spent. Our development team is invaluable in helping drive fundraising that fuels these life-changing discoveries and develop technologies and solutions that will change the way we live, work and play. If you are passionate about building relationships and making a lasting impact, this is your opportunity to transform ideas into reality. This position offers flexibility, with work options available in the Gainesville area and in major metropolitan hubs across North and Central Florida (including Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa) .

Requirements

Master's degree in appropriate area of specialization and three years of appropriate experience in Development or a related field; or a bachelor's degree in appropriate areas of specialization and five years of experience in Development or a related field.

Nice To Haves

At least four to six years of major gift fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting major gifts of $100,000 and above from individual and corporate prospects with campaign experience.
Prior experience in a college or university setting, enthusiasm for fundraising in a comprehensive research university, and the desire to work collegially within a goal-oriented fundraising organization.
Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards.
Expertise in developing solicitation strategies.
The ability to work strategically, develop and implement constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers.
Ability to work collaboratively and a team player
Competency in problem solving.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential.
Support the University’s commitment to creating a respectful and collaborative work environment that values integrity, professionalism, and mutual respect in all interactions; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential.
Proficient in the following areas: Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms. Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred.
The ability and willingness to travel. A valid driver’s license and good driving record are essential.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the design and implementation of the development and alumni programs in assigned units.
Independently perform identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gift prospects, with a focus on individual prospects.
Work with leadership to engage and cultivate corporate and foundation prospects where the gift or grant is assessed at $100,000 and above.
Build a portfolio of fundraising prospects and strategically manage relationships through face-to-face visits to bring major gift solicitations to closure.
Responsible for articulating, communicating, and prioritizing within the context of the overall Advancement mission, goals, and objectives.
Strengthen alumni and donors’ awareness of, and interest in giving opportunities and collaborate with academic unit-based development officers across campus.
In partnership with the Senior Director of Development Administration, assist with the formation and implementation of fundraising and alumni relations plans and policies related to the College, interprets policy to faculty and other staff, as necessary.
Assist with planning and implementing short- and long-term development and alumni programs and strategies.
Design solicitation and stewardship strategies on a case-by-case basis, being cognizant of development and college office needs and procedures.
Assist in developing and implementing a comprehensive communications plan to inform constituents and identified markets about the mission, vision, and values of the unit, its funding priorities, and gift opportunities.
Develop and present major gift proposals and acknowledge and recognize gifts in ways that are meaningful to donors, and appropriate to the vision, mission, and values of the unit and UF Advancement.
Create a structured process for the identification, recruitment, evaluation, recognition, and replacement of volunteers to strengthen fundraising effectiveness.
Participate in recruiting experienced and varied leadership on boards and/or committees to ensure that these groups are representative of, and responsive to, the communities served.

Benefits

Affordable State Health Plans: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Comprehensive Coverage: Life and Disability Insurance
Secure Retirement Options: Generous plans to safeguard your future.
Inclusive Paid Time Off: Including 11 paid holidays, as well as family, sick, and vacation leave.
Professional and Personal Growth: Opportunities through UF Training & Organization Development, leadership development, LinkedIn learning, and more
Tuition Assistance: Benefit from the UF Employee Education Program
PSLF Eligibility: We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer

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