Senior Director of Development, University Initiatives (Administrator II)

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

3d • $130,000 - $140,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

San Diego State University is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Senior
Director of Development, University Initiatives, to lead efforts in securing
transformational philanthropic support for university-wide priorities. Part of
the new University Initiatives team, this position will report to the Executive
Director of Development for University Initiatives. This role focuses on
building meaningful partnerships with alumni, community members, current donors,
campus leaders, and external stakeholders to advance SDSU’s mission through
principal-level gifts and high-impact initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a minimum of ten (10) years of major gifts fundraising or closely related experience managing high-value, relationship-based revenue portfolios.
• Success in major gift fundraising (1,000,000+) that demonstrates an ability to align strategy development/implementation with pre-approved goals/priorities.
• Fundraising experience within a large, complex university or nonprofit organization.
• Proven experience in all facets of development, including gift administration, gift acceptance, prospect management, research, annual giving, volunteer management, and communications.
• Demonstrated success as a development professional in a donor-centered fundraising environment.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic and evolving organizational setting.
• Demonstrated success in providing volunteer leadership.
• Ability to interpret biographical, corporate, and foundation information.
• Ability to represent the university and development division professionally to internal and external constituencies.
• A high degree of commitment to higher education and philanthropy and the ability to articulate a compelling case for annual support of a public institution of higher education.
• Demonstrated transferable skills from related advancement or relationship-based development roles.
• Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated success participating in or contributing to comprehensive or capital campaigns is preferred.
• Experience with Planned Giving Programs is preferred.
• An advanced degree in a related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward principal-level donors, including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Build and manage a high-level portfolio focused on gifts of $1M+ in support of university initiatives.
• Evaluate giving opportunities and recommend strategies aligned with donor interests and institutional priorities.
• Partner with campus leadership, faculty, and development colleagues to advance fundraising priorities and initiatives.
• Contribute to principal gift strategy discussions, leadership meetings, and cross-campus initiatives.
• Represent SDSU at donor meetings, events, and key internal and external engagements.
• Strengthen relationships with alumni, community leaders, and partners to expand philanthropic support.
• Ensure all fundraising activities align with CSU, SDSU, and foundation policies and best practices.

Benefits

• Generous Leave Benefits: Enjoy 15 paid holidays, 24 vacation days, and 12 sick days per year.
• Retirement Security: Benefit from a CalPERS defined benefit pension plan, with reciprocity with the UC Retirement Plan, plus retiree healthcare benefits.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access a variety of health, dental, and vision plans at no or low cost to you.
• Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of the California State University system fee reduction program for yourself or a qualified dependent.
• Voluntary Benefits: Opt into additional benefits like Auto & Home Insurance, Life and Disability Insurances, a Legal Plan, Pet Insurance, and the ScholarShare 529 Plan for college savings.

What This Job Offers

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