Executive Director-Development

Executive Director – Development

DEPARTMENT: Office of Advancement

LOCATION: Grand Rapids – W.A Lettinga Campus *Hybrid Schedule
*

REPORTS TO: Executive Vice President-Advancement

PAY: $110,000 – $118,000

Davenport University seeks a highly motivated and experienced
fundraising professional to serve as the Executive Director of
Development within the Office of Advancement. This key leadership
position will report to the Executive Vice President for
Advancement. They will be responsible for creating and executing a
strategic fundraising plan to achieve major gifts and annual giving
objectives in alignment with the university’s mission, vision, and
strategic priorities. The Executive Director will play a vital role
in building relationships with a diverse group of constituents,
including individuals, alumni, corporations, foundations, and more,
to drive philanthropic success for Davenport University in
achieving their $35M campaign goal for ELEVATE: A campaign for
Davenport University. http://www.davenport.edu/elevate

Position overview:

• Major Gift Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive major
  gift strategy and annual plan, focusing on raising significant
  funds to support the university’s philanthropic priorities.
• Collaborative Approach: Collaborate internally to create
  compelling cases for support, proposals, and stewardship materials
  that resonate with donors and prospects.
• Leadership Role: Serve as a key member of the Office of
  Advancement leadership team, contributing to the overall strategy,
  planning, and execution of short and long-term fundraising goals
  and oversee the assistant director of development.
• Donor Portfolio: Manage a portfolio of 125-175 current and
  prospective donors, conducting at least 150 visits annually and
  producing a minimum of 24 proposals above $50,000 for
  solicitation.
• Foundation Engagement: Maintain strong relationships with
  Foundation Trustees, ensuring their participation, trustee giving,
  relationship growth, and identification of new prospects.
• Prospect Research: Develop a robust prospect pool for research
  on potential donors and alumni in collaboration with department
  staff.
• Cultivation and Solicitation: Conduct prospect and donor
  cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship while overseeing a
  portfolio of major and planned gift prospects.
• Annual Giving Strategy: Oversee the creation and implementation
  of the annual giving strategy.
• Live our STAIR Values: Serving with Quality, Trustworthiness,
  Accountability, Innovation and Creativity, Respect and
  Inclusion,

What can you expect?

• Davenport University and the Office of Advancement highly
  prioritize employee work life balance
• Small collegiate feel with the world class resources of an
  institution of higher learning
• A driven & results-oriented team environment
• Committed, competent and engaged leadership at all levels
• Hybrid Schedule
• Advancement fundraising position with low travel
  expectations
• Strong healthcare and retirement benefits
• Free and significantly reduced tuition for employees,
  dependents, and spouses

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
• Minimum of seven years of successful fundraising-related
  experience.
• Minimum of five years of experience in major gift cultivation
  and solicitation.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships that
  generate institutional support.
• Experience in managing teams and achieving desired
  outcomes.
• Strong goal-setting and deadline management skills.
• Proficiency in various fundraising facets, including capital
  campaigns, major gifts, and planned giving.
• Exceptional planning, organizational, and implementation
  skills.
• Proficiency in computerized data systems.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills
  for diverse audiences.
• Ethical, motivated, and dedicated to the university’s
  mission.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
  as needed.

Preferred:

• Masters Degree in a related field.
• Prior Higher Education experience in Advancement and
  Development.

About Davenport University:

At Davenport University, we know what it takes to be successful.
With over 155 years of providing quality education under our belts,
thousands of Davenport graduates are making an impact on the world
with the knowledge and skills they learned here. Our team of
faculty and staff collaborate to make this possible. Joining DU
means growing and advancing your own career, while making a lasting
impact on our students, colleagues and the communities in which we
serve.

Diversity and Inclusion:

At Davenport, we believe that engaging diversity, equity and
inclusion is essential to achieving educational and institutional
excellence. We invite you to join us as we band together to create
an environment of equity and inclusivity that leverages diverse
life experiences, ideas, backgrounds and perspectives. We respect
diversity and are committed to fostering an environment of support,
inclusiveness and learning, both in the workplace and throughout
the application process. With that in mind, we welcome applications
from candidates of all backgrounds, including people of color,
people with disabilities, Veterans and the LGBTQ + community. We
recognize that not all job seekers have all the preferred
qualifications listed in the job ad, but we strongly recommend that
you apply if you meet most of the criteria.

About Grand Rapids, Michigan:
Join our dynamic team in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where work-life
balance is not just a concept, but a way of life. Nestled along the
scenic Grand River and situated in close proximity to the
breathtaking shores of Lake Michigan, our city offers an
unparalleled quality of life for individuals and families alike.
Experience the charm of a city known for its friendly philanthropic
community, diverse cultural scene, and abundant outdoor
recreational opportunities, including pristine beaches and water
activities on Lake Michigan. Grand Rapids is not just a workplace;
it’s a place where your family can thrive amidst a strong sense of
community, excellent schools, and a wealth of family-friendly
attractions. From award-winning craft breweries and farm-to-table
dining to world-class art exhibits and music festivals, Grand
Rapids provides an enriching environment for both personal and
professional growth. Join us in a city where every day is an
opportunity to blend career success with the joys of family
life.

Would you like to be part of our success? It all starts here!
EEO-Davenport University is committed to equal employment
opportunity regardless of a person(s) national origin, race, color,
religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender
identity, transgender identity, veteran or military status, marital
status, height, weight, genetic information, and any other category
or classification protected by law.

To apply, visit https://davenport.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/15/home/requisition/2615?c=davenport

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