Director of Major Gifts, College of Arts & Architecture

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate a prospect pool of graduates and other key constituencies.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through informal and formal communications, including written proposals.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts.
• Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed and appropriately aggressive set of fundraising metrics.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Three or more years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills for building relationships with sophisticated, high‑net‑worth audiences.
• Ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues.
• Proven ability to self‑motivate and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions.
• Commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.
• Valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check.
• Authorization to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship).

Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $81,312.00 – $122,016.00.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Substantial paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Generous tuition discount of 75% for employees and eligible spouses and children.

Pay

Salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 – $122,016.00.

DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position.

Employment will require successful completion of background checks, a motor vehicle records check, and a valid driver’s license.