Chief Development Officer, Manning Institute of Biotechnology
About The Manning Institute Of Biotechnology
The Manning Institute of Biotechnology (MIoB) is a transformative institution dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into treatments and cures for patients. Funded by a $100 million gift from Paul and Diane Manning, the MIoB's 350,000-square-foot facility is set to open in late 2027, fostering a vibrant biotech ecosystem in Charlottesville and Virginia.
Position Overview
The University of Virginia seeks an experienced development professional to serve as the inaugural Chief Development Officer (CDO) for the MIoB. Reporting to the Senior Associate Vice President for UVA Health Development, the CDO will build and lead a comprehensive philanthropic program, focusing on scholarships, professorships, education and workforce programs, and supporting the institute's capital buildout and research initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Design and execute a comprehensive development strategy and campaign plan that aligns MIoB strategic priorities with development goals across the schools and University.
Establish fundraising priorities, goals, metrics, and timelines. Serve as a thought partner for MIoB leadership.
Support the work of the Senior Vice President for External Relations and other development leadership on behalf of the Manning Institute.
Partner with the MIoB’s chief marketing officer and UVA Health Development team to develop high-quality donor-facing materials, impact reports, case statements, gift proposals, and event programming.
Prospect Development & Portfolio Management
Build and steward a robust portfolio of major and principal gift prospects, including individuals, foundations, industry partners, and disease-based organizations.
Personalize prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for donors at the six- and seven-figure level and above.
Collaborate with the University’s Corporate & Foundation Relations team on managing high-level industry partnerships in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors.
Collaborate with development leaders, deans, and faculty across UVA on fundraising strategies and proposals for shared priorities of the MIoB and schools of the University.
Advisory Board Development & Volunteer Leadership
Launch an Advisory Board for the Manning Institute, comprising leaders from industry, philanthropy, science, and public policy.
Create objectives and a productive meeting cadence for the Advisory Board.
Provide strategic staffing and support to Advisory Board members, preparing them to open doors, make introductions, participate in donor cultivation events, and lead by philanthropic example.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree required.
Experience: At least five years of previous fundraising experience.
Demonstrated success identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and closing major and principal gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
Exceptional interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific and technical concepts into compelling donor narratives.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively across organizational boundaries and to build trusted and productive partnerships with faculty, leadership, volunteers, and donors.
Strong project management skills and comfort operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
Commitment to the values of the University of Virginia and to the highest standards of professional ethics and donor stewardship.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree preferred.
Experience fundraising in biomedical research, engineering, or a related technical field.
Existing networks within the biotechnology, life sciences, or healthcare philanthropy communities.
Experience staffing and developing volunteer advisory boards or campaign committees.
Knowledge of Charlottesville’s biotech and research ecosystem or demonstrated ability to build regional presence rapidly.