Director of Annual Giving

Accountabilities

The Director of Annual Giving is a key leader in Colgate University’s Advancement Division and is responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of the University’s annual giving program. Reporting to the AVP for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving, the Director develops and oversees a multi-channel solicitation strategy for the fiscal year to maximize gifts of current-use dollars and achieve alumni participation goals. The Director will be responsible for a strong donor experience, pipeline development, and donor acquisition. The Director is expected to serve as the campus lead for annual giving campaigns and supervise a team of Annual Giving staff members aligned to renewal, stewardship, class management, volunteer/affinity fundraising, leadership giving societies, recent alumni/student philanthropy, and digital gift officer coverage. The Director partners with colleagues across Advancement—including frontline fundraisers, athletic fundraising staff, alumni engagement, and communications—and with campus collaborators to promote a culture of philanthropy and engagement. In partnership with the Annual Giving and Communications team, develop and execute an annual giving strategy for all communication channels. Develop a strategy focused on a strong donor experience, personalized asks, and an ability to track donor progression. Lead the planning and implementation of university-wide annual giving campaigns. Serve as a partner with frontline fundraising colleagues in support of the Colgate Fund and other designated annual giving funds, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and donor interests. Develop and oversee strategies for engaging and managing volunteers to support annual giving goals. Serve as the strategic manager of the Presidents’ Circle, a leadership giving society, working to deepen donor commitment and retention at the leadership annual giving level. Directly supervise and coach a team of full-time Annual Giving staff members, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree is required.

Benefits

Colgate University offers a competitive benefits package, with most benefits effective on the date of hire. Highlights include: medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, paid family leave, health & wellness, continuing education and professional development. We also offer unique perks, such as free parking, gym discounts, bookstore savings, athletic tickets, and access to cultural and recreational facilities. Explore the full benefits package on our website.