Senior Director Of Advancement, College of Nursing

University of Tennessee • Knoxville, TN

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Tennessee (UT) College of Nursing, the highest-ranked undergraduate Nursing college in Tennessee and No. 18 among public universities nationally, is experiencing significant momentum. This includes innovative industry partnerships, substantial recent investment in endowed giving, and a new, state-of-the-art 117,000 square foot building. The college has achieved its most successful fiscal year to date and is nearing its $70 million campaign goal, having raised over $57 million. The College of Nursing in Knoxville is nationally ranked and internationally recognized for its diverse and comprehensive programs, focusing on innovative simulation, interprofessional collaboration, research, and community outreach to improve health outcomes and address healthcare challenges. The college is dedicated to preparing nurses with a broad understanding of the profession, public policy, leadership, and healthcare systems. The Senior Director will actively participate in monthly College of Nursing Administrative & Director’s meetings and faculty/Director’s meetings.

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a professional fundraising position, preferably in higher education, sales, or a similar position requiring comparable skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, written, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, and other available technologies.
• Ability to travel extensively and work flexible hours.
• Ability to work independently or in a group setting as both a team leader and a team member.
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices and procedures, including annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, and fundraising campaigns.
• Ability to handle a variety of different tasks under pressure.
• Ability to supervise, coach, and motivate a team of professionals.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across campus.
• Positive attitude with the ability to relate well to people, especially in one-on-one settings.
• Ability to work as a team player and think creatively.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree
• More than 7 years of experience in a professional fundraising position, preferably in higher education, sales, or a similar position requiring comparable skills.
• Microsoft Office Suite and Donor Software (preferably ACE) experience

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the college’s advancement efforts.
• Play the lead role in building and executing a strategic fundraising/advancement plan for the college alongside the new dean.
• Lead goal setting, planning, and supervision of the Advancement team, including an Advancement Coordinator.
• Manage a portfolio of current and prospective donors, focusing on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding financial investments of $50,000+.
• Build relationships and maintain a healthy pipeline of donors, alumni, and volunteers.
• Travel extensively to maximize fundraising potential, including visits with the Dean and other academic leaders.
• Ensure proper and thorough data entry into UTFI’s CRM system.
• Serve as a key partner throughout the College and Division of Advancement, collaborating with Planned Giving, Regional, and Corporate fundraisers.
• Earn trust and build strong relationships with academic partners, donors, and Advancement colleagues.
• Prepare communication materials such as gift proposals, thank you notes, fundraising appeals, and contact reports.
• Serve as the College’s lead stewardship officer, responsible for the college’s short- and long-term stewardship strategy.
• Oversee board relations for the college’s volunteer/advisory board, including identifying future board contributors.

Benefits

• Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually
• 14 paid holidays
• Administrative closing days
• Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule
• Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
• Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods

What This Job Offers

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