Divinity Director of Development

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

5d • $78,161 - $156,319

About The Position

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Duke Divinity School is seeking a Director of Development to join our External Relations team. In this role, you will lead comprehensive fundraising efforts that support the School’s mission and priorities, including endowment growth, scholarships, faculty support, and strategic initiatives. You’ll work closely with the Associate Dean for External Relations and collaborate with alumni, major donors, and the Board of Visitors to advance the School’s vision.

You will oversee a talented team responsible for annual giving, alumni engagement, major gifts, stewardship, events, and budget management. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact by shaping strategies that sustain theological education and strengthen relationships with churches, foundations, and individual supporters.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, business, or related field.
• Seven years of experience in fundraising, alumni relations, public relations, or related areas.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with experience supervising staff.
• Proven ability to develop and implement successful fundraising strategies.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or equivalent.
• Significant experience with and understanding of the church and theological education.
• Familiarity with major gift cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Experience managing comprehensive campaigns and donor stewardship programs.

Responsibilities

• Direct major gifts program to secure multi-year contributions for endowment, scholarships, faculty support, and initiatives.
• Supervise staff responsible for annual fund, alumni engagement, major gifts, stewardship, and events.
• Develop and implement strategies for Board of Visitors engagement and comprehensive campaigns.
• Oversee donor tracking systems and generate reports on gifts, goals, and progress.
• Provide leadership in budget planning, personnel actions, and operational strategy.

Benefits

• Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees