Director of Donor Stewardship
About The Position
Effective donor stewardship is an essential element of successful fundraising. As a vital component of the fundraising team, the Director of Donor Stewardship is responsible for providing university-wide leadership for donor stewardship, recognition, and engagement activities that support fundraising priorities across annual, major, and principal gift programs. The position exercises independent professional judgment in the development, coordination, and execution of donor engagement strategies and serves as a strategic partner and advisor to fundraising staff and campus leadership in the retention and growth of donors in order to maximize fundraising success. The role ensures donor engagement and stewardship activities are aligned with institutional priorities, campaign strategy, and donor intent throughout the fundraising lifecycle. The Development-Fundraising Unit is responsible for securing and stewarding private philanthropic support that advances the University’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term financial sustainability. As a results-driven partner to university leadership, Development-Fundraising builds and manages relationships with alumni, donors, corporate partners, and friends, translating institutional priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities that drive measurable outcomes, sustained fundraising growth, and enduring confidence.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Three (3) years of experience in philanthropy, advancement, stewardship, or a related professional field.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and timelines.
- Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in a professional setting.
- Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Experience using data or systems to support decision-making or process improvement.
- Experience managing personnel.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in higher education or a comparably complex organization.
- Knowledge of endowment fund administration and private donor scholarship processes.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with senior university leadership, foundation board members, and major or principal-level donors.
Benefits
- Insurance benefits, including health, dental, vision, and life
- Retirement and supplemental retirement planning options
- Tuition waiver benefits available to staff as well as their eligible dependents
- Paid holiday/administrative closures during Thanksgiving and Winter Breaks
- Paid benefit time
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
