Director of Major Gifts, College of Engineering

Penn State University • University Park, IL

4d

About The Position

Penn State is currently seeking a top frontline fundraiser in the role of Director of Major Gifts to engage alumni and friends as partners in supporting the College of Engineering, one of the nation’s leading educators of world-class engineers and leading producers of world-class research. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations and working closely with the college’s leadership, as well as other partners and central development offices, this Director of Major Gifts will:

Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies; Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications, including written proposals; Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts; Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed and appropriately aggressive set of fundraising metrics.

The successful candidate will also have:

A track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals; Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills required to build relationships with sophisticated and high-net worth audiences; The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues; A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team; A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions; A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.

DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• A track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills required to build relationships with sophisticated and high-net worth audiences
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team
• A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions
• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications, including written proposals
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts
• Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed and appropriately aggressive set of fundraising metrics

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

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