Steward Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree AND five (5) years of experience in development/advancement, with an emphasis on frontline fundraising, stewarding and soliciting major gifts.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in major gift fundraising, with a strong understanding of the full donor engagement process, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Proven ability to build and maintain donor-centered relationships based on trust, credibility, and long-term partnership.
• Experience working toward clearly defined fundraising goals and activity metrics, with the ability to track progress, manage performance expectations, and use data to inform strategy.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to navigate differing perspectives and resolve conflict through open, respectful dialogue.
• High ethical standards and sound judgment, with a commitment to integrity, transparency, and responsible fundraising practices.
• Effective critical thinking and decision-making skills, particularly in complex or evolving situations.
• Familiarity with donor databases and fundraising systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of philanthropic prospects, focusing on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors who have the capacity to make major gifts.
• Identify and qualify new donor prospects using research tools, donor information, and professional networks, including prospects interested in planned giving.
• Engage donors and prospects through meaningful interactions, primarily face-to-face, and translate those conversations into clear, actionable cultivation and solicitation plans.
• Prepare, submit, and follow through on major gift proposals, including solicitations of $100,000 or more, aligned with fundraising priorities.
• Work within an established fundraising metrics and accountability framework, managing activity levels, proposals, progress toward goals, and reporting regularly on results.
• Work collaboratively with advancement colleagues across the University to coordinate donor engagement, prepare briefing materials, and support solicitation efforts.
• Prepare proposals, gift agreements, and supporting materials in coordination with advancement and gift services colleagues, ensuring accurate documentation and timely donor acknowledgment.
• Engage volunteers and advisory board members, when appropriate, to support fundraising and donor relationships.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records and participate in prospect tracking using the University of Washington’s donor database.
• Stay informed about fundraising priorities and work with campus leaders and advancement colleagues to support gifts for both immediate and long-term impact.
• Develop and lead fundraising strategies for assigned schools, units, and academic and student affairs programs, using best practices to meet established goals; provide strategic guidance to shape and advance philanthropic priorities.
• Create and implement an annual fundraising plan that outlines clear goals, strategies, and priorities, and track progress throughout the year.
• Design and carry out development programs and targeted fundraising initiatives that support sustained and increased philanthropic support.
• Regularly evaluate fundraising programs, assess progress toward goals, and share clear updates on outcomes and impact.
• Effectively communicate and advocate for UW Tacoma’s mission, priorities, and funding needs to donors and community partners.
• Represent UW Tacoma at donor engagements, campus events, and relevant professional gatherings.
• Support marketing and communications efforts by identifying compelling stories and opportunities that highlight fundraising priorities and impact.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities