Job Information
St. Lawrence University Executive Director of Major and Planned Gifts in Canton, New York
Position Information
Position Title Executive Director of Major and Planned Gifts
FLSA Exempt
Primary Responsibilities
Position Summary
Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for University Advancement/Chief Philanthropy Officer, the Executive Director of Major and Planned Gifts is responsible for the overall management and execution of St. Lawrence’s major and planned gifts programs. The major gifts program is charged with managing relationships and securing support from major gift and principal gift ($100K +) prospects. In addition to managing a portfolio of approximately 75 prospects, the Executive Director supervises the activity of all major gift front- line fundraisers (both on campus and those who work remotely). S/he works closely with all members of development, including the Vice President for University Advancement and the Assistant Vice President for University Advancement/Chief Philanthropy Officer, to develop and execute cultivation plans and solicitation strategies for St. Lawrence’s top prospects.
The Executive Director will also work with the Vice President for University Advancement and the Assistant Vice President for University Advancement/Chief Philanthropy Officer to plan and execute the University’s next campaign. This individual must have high professional aspirations, a willingness to travel, a solid understanding of and demonstrated success implementing metrics and best practices related to moves management, and a desire to mentor and promote a collaborative environment among front- line fundraisers.
Duties/Responsibilities
Overall management of major and planned gifts programs
Supervise staff members in major gifts and planned gifts programs. Develop and propose strategies for the solicitation of major and planned gifts. Ensure that all solicitations are carried out appropriately and in a timely manner, in accordance with best practices in moves management. In conjunction with the Assistant Vice President for University Advancement/ Chief Philanthropy Officer and the Executive Director of Advancement Operations, implement a rigorous system of metrics and analytics using The Raiser’s Edge to evaluate staff performance and monitor goal attainment, paying particular attention to revenue production.
Major and planned gifts fundraising
Maintain a portfolio of 75 major gift prospects. Develop long-term relationships with prospective donors, moving them through the cultivation cycle from identification through solicitation and stewardship. Travel to prospects for 1:1 meetings to ensure steady progress.
Campaign planning and execution
Help prepare and execute the University’s next campaign. Assist in providing guidance for all activities related to the planning, implementation, and tracking of multi-year fundraising campaigns and initiatives that support St. Lawrence’s strategic map and mission. Work with prospects and donors to maximize philanthropy in support of the university’s strategic priorities. Track and report on progress against fundraising goals and priorities.
Other duties as assigned to meet departmental goals and objectives.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required.
7-10 years overall experience in development.
Looking for 5 years minimum experience in major gifts fundraising, preferably in higher education.
Success supervising staff and building a collaborative work environment strongly preferred, but not required.
Proven ability to qualify, cultivate, and solicit high level prospects and steward donors. Track record of closing major gifts.
Extensive understanding of best practices related to moves management and fundraising metrics. Solid understanding of and experience with The Raiser’s Edge or similar development database system.
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, verbal and written communications skills.
Ability to work independently as well as within a team, build effective relationships, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to develop strong relationships with donors with the highest degree of professionalism.
Preferred Qualifications
Salary $125,000 - $135,000. Actual rate will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.
Status (FT, PT, Seasonal, Temp) Full-time (12 months)
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number ST01278
Desired Start Date
Open Date (to accept applications)
Close Date (date applications will not be considered)
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions to Applicant
Interested and qualified applicants should complete the online application form and upload required documents in the “applicant documents” section of the form.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be directed to Casey Peterson, Assistant Vice President for University Advancement/Chief Philanthropy Officer at cpeterson@stlawu.edu.
All offers of employment are contingent upon the finalist successfully passing a background (including criminal records) check.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Resume
Diversity Statement (a brief statement about your approach or ideas for promoting diversity and inclusion)
Contact Information for 3 Professional References
Optional Documents