Associate Director of Development

Position Summary

The Associate Director of Development is responsible for managing a portfolio of major gift donors and advancing philanthropic support for Rice University through strategic fundraising initiatives. The role identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donor prospects, targeting philanthropic commitments of $25,000 to $100,000+ across all schools and programs.

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes data-informed engagement strategies
• Aligns donor interests with institutional priorities
• Contributes to overall fundraising performance
• Maintains an active portfolio of 85 to 100 prospects and achieves annual fundraising outcomes of $500,000 to $750,000 or more

Workplace Requirements

• Hybrid role combining in-office and remote work
• Valid Texas driver’s license with no more than three moving violations and/or at fault accidents within the past 36 months
• No convictions or deferred dispositions for DWI or DUI within the past five years

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Two or more (2+) years of successful professional fundraising or equivalent experience with a demonstrated track record of soliciting, closing and stewarding gifts of $25,000+

Skills

• Ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal development and presentation
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Proficiency with CRM systems and standard office software
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail

Preferences

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit fundraising environments
• Experience supporting or contributing to capital campaigns or major gift initiatives
• Familiarity with donor management systems and reporting tools
• Experience managing a donor or prospect portfolio
• Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) credential or equivalent experience
• Interest in or appreciation for Rice University’s mission and programs

Additional Functions

• Travels locally, regionally, and nationally to support donor engagement
• Participates in evening and weekend activities as required
• Represents the university in interactions with external audiences, including donors and alumni
• Engages regularly with internal partners and university stakeholders

Rice University HR | Benefits

Rice Mission and Values

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.