Leadership Annual Giving Officer College of Engineering

Wayne State University • Detroit, MI

404d • $25,000 - $60,000

About The Position

The Leadership Annual Giving Officer for the College of Engineering at Wayne State University is responsible for providing leadership and direction for the college's development office. This role focuses on developing and managing fundraising strategies, particularly in soliciting and securing major individual gifts of $25,000 and above. The officer will engage with the college's dean and faculty in philanthropy initiatives and fundraising strategies, aiming to meet established fundraising goals within the allocated budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, public relations, business administration, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience working as a fundraising professional in direct individual solicitations.
• Direct experience preparing proposals and conducting gift solicitations preferred.
• Professional understanding of Development and Alumni Affairs best practices and general operations.
• Ability to evaluate, interpret, and present complex information effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in higher education or non-profit development.
• Prior volunteer management experience.
• Proficient in the use of complex administrative systems software, preferably in the higher education environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage a major gift prospect portfolio to achieve annual and campaign fundraising and contact goals.
• Establish and implement prospect qualification, cultivation, and solicitation strategies with a focus on securing commitments of $25,000 or more.
• Draft and negotiate gift and pledge documentation ranging from moderate to high complexity.
• Collaborate with dean, department chairs, and faculty in identifying fundraising needs and priorities.
• Oversee the cultivation and solicitation of major individual donors; manage a portfolio of prospects and conduct one-on-one visits.
• Responsible for achieving annual fundraising goals and assisting in meeting unit goals.
• Supervise a diverse staff, effectively managing performance to meet individual and team initiatives.
• Manage the unit's annual expenditure budget and develop revenue and expense projections.
• Identify and recruit prospects to participate on volunteer committees for specific projects and solicitations.
• Collaborate with division units to ensure operational efficiencies within the development unit.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $59,000 to $60,000.
• Opportunities for professional development and training programs.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on diversity and inclusion.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees