Director of Regional Development, Texas

Employment Status: Full Time

Position Overview

The Director of Regional Development works in a regional advancement operation raising philanthropic support for university priorities by establishing, developing, and maintaining relationships with supporters in the region. This position will be regionally based within Texas and requires regular (quarterly) travel to campus in Milwaukee, WI. This role will directly manage a portfolio of major gift prospects who have an interest in supporting the University.

Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management
  • Assist in executing an annual fundraising business plan, developed by the leader.
  • Meet regularly with their leader to assess projects, review strategies, and track progress toward meeting fundraising performance benchmarks.
  • Manage a portfolio of approximately 40 prospects with capacity to make gifts of $125,000 and more, with an annual production goal in excess of $1,000,000; regularly identify and contact additional prospects through research and referrals.
  • Meet individually with prospects and volunteers designed to move prospects toward making a philanthropic commitment to the university.
  • Make personal gift solicitations, including maintaining a comprehensive understanding of university priorities, preparation of solicitation materials, conducting strategy meetings, and preparing briefing materials for President/Vice President of Advancement/Dean/others involved in solicitation.
  • Direct and refer solicitations to identified prospects in portfolio for planned gifts, including bequests and annuities; partner with the Planned Giving fundraising team as needed.
  • Maintain appropriate contact with prospects and record all contact in the University Advancement prospect management system.
  • Track and timely submit P-card activity.
• Build Community
  • Create a regional annual plan and strategy for programming, leadership engagement, and fundraising outcomes in the region.
  • Provide oversight of fundraising activity in the region and act as a liaison to regionally based volunteer committees.
  • Attend relevant university events and meetings, some during evenings and weekends, representing the university to external constituents.
  • Participate in all UA, Regional Advancement, or other required team or staff meetings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• A minimum of 4 years of development-related experience in higher education, including a successful track record of personal portfolio management and securing gifts at the $125K or above level; relevant sales experience may also be considered.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with colleagues in a team environment.
• Ability to travel is required.