Director of Development – UNK College of Business and Technology

University of Nebraska Foundation Careers•Kearney, NE

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Be a trusted, strategic, fundraising partner to enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. Are you inspired by the mission of the University of Nebraska Foundation and looking to make a difference in the lives of others? Do you have a passion for higher education and the difference it can make in people’s lives? Do you have outstanding relational and listening skills that allow you to uncover the visions and dreams of donors? Do you possess the emotional intelligence and authenticity that it takes to meaningfully connect with people and build long-term relationships on behalf of the University? Have you been a successful fundraiser, well-versed in the best practices of the profession? Are you looking to work alongside a supportive and highly engaged team? If so, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity! At the University of Nebraska Foundation, we grow relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. We believe that our strong commitment to inclusion and respect is essential to accomplishing this mission through our values of teamwork, integrity, and passion for mission. We invite, explore, and celebrate differences to increase productivity, spark innovation and most importantly, accomplish our mission. UNK’s College of Business and Technology is an innovative and experiential learning college offering programs that produce professionals for the needs of 2026 and beyond. This role requests a dual-capacity development officer, who will have the opportunity to interact with a wide and deep group of constituents and alumni whose time, involvement, and philanthropic support have a direct impact on the college and its students. You will work from the new Regional Engagement Center, a hub of innovation and collaboration supporting economic growth in central Nebraska. This immersive environment places you at the heart of a dynamic, emerging campus with a strong trajectory for growth and impact. You will join the foundation at an exciting time, with the opportunity to make a transformational impact. The foundation is in the public phase of a historic campaign to raise $3 billion to build a better future for Nebraska. The campaign is being led by many enthusiastic volunteers representing all areas of the University of Nebraska System. Ways you will make an impact: Be responsible for the identification of prospects, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors wishing to support the College of Business and Technology. Play a critical role in building a robust community of philanthropic support by partnering with faculty/staff, volunteers, and Foundation staff to meet fundraising goals, execute events, and build affinity in support of philanthropic priorities. Collaborate with the Dean, College of Business and Technology leadership, and UNK Advancement Team colleagues to evolve strategy, increase donor engagement, and maximize annual, major, and planned gift potential. Be responsible for the data management of a portfolio to ensure accurate prospect tracking. Who we want: Purpose-driven individuals who are inspired by what they can achieve and understand that ultimately their impact is bigger than themselves. Self-starters who are motivated and undertake tasks on their own initiative. Intellectually curious individuals who can think strategically and collaborate with others. Creative problem-solving individuals who bring new and out-of-box ideas to the table. Communicators who can gather and understand complex information or processes and then communicate it to others in simple terms. Relationally talented individuals to make authentic connections, facilitate meaningful conversations, and provide individual solutions to help generous donors fulfill their philanthropic goals. Compassionate communicators who are energized by the opportunity to connect with others. Positive and motivated individuals who are driven by what they can achieve and inspired by contributing to our mission.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
1-5 years’ experience in development, fundraising, business, non-profit, higher education, or a related field with transferable skills.
Demonstrated success in the solicitation of annual and major gifts, or transferable skills.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Discretion in handling confidential matters.
Candidates will also be evaluated on our core values of passion for mission, integrity, and teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree.

Responsibilities

Be responsible for the identification of prospects, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors wishing to support the College of Business and Technology.
Play a critical role in building a robust community of philanthropic support by partnering with faculty/staff, volunteers, and Foundation staff to meet fundraising goals, execute events, and build affinity in support of philanthropic priorities.
Collaborate with the Dean, College of Business and Technology leadership, and UNK Advancement Team colleagues to evolve strategy, increase donor engagement, and maximize annual, major, and planned gift potential.
Be responsible for the data management of a portfolio to ensure accurate prospect tracking.