Executive Director of Development, Gift Planning

UNM Foundation • Albuquerque, NM

90d

About The Position

The University of New Mexico Foundation is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to serve as Executive Director of Development, Gift Planning. This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-impact team and shape the future of philanthropic giving at UNM. If you’re passionate about legacy giving, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to make a lasting difference in higher education, we invite you to explore this role.

Requirements

• Proven success securing planned gifts of $1 million or more.
• Deep understanding of planned giving vehicles and the ability to communicate them effectively.
• Experience managing and mentoring staff in a complex organizational setting.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with planned giving software (e.g., Crescendo or PG Calc) and planned giving marketing vendors.
• Ability to analyze financial, estate, and tax documents in consultation with legal and financial professionals.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute long-term strategic plans for planned giving programs.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and best practices related to estate and trust giving.

Nice To Haves

• Experience structuring and closing blended gifts (outright and deferred).
• Ability to create a network of estate planning attorneys and financial advisors.
• Comfort and skill in presenting to large groups of donors, advisors, and colleagues.
• A track record of engaging donors from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Familiarity with university-wide funding priorities and higher education fundraising.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and guide a talented team while driving strategic growth in planned giving.
• Build productive relationships with donors, university colleagues, and professional advisors.
• Collaborate across departments and with university leadership.
• Engage diverse audiences with clarity and confidence as a persuasive communicator and skilled presenter.
• Translate vision into action through data-driven decision-making and innovative stewardship.

Benefits

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees