Major Gifts Officer (Director of Development)

Penn State’s Office of University Development is seeking a Director of Development for the Division of Student Affairs. This senior major gifts job reports directly to the Associate Vice President for Development and also has a close working relationship with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Provide professional guidance and leadership in identifying and executing strategies that are most likely to be achieved through private philanthropy.

Responsible for developing annual goal-setting and fundraising plans and directing related activities in support of these goals and objectives. Personally manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and lead the staff to identify, cultivate and solicit alumni, parents and other donors in support of the fundraising goals for the Office of Student Affairs. Work collaboratively with the Vice President of Student Affairs, the Parents Committee volunteers and central University Development staff to ensure fundraising success. Recruit, train and manage a volunteer development committee.

Expected to complete an average minimum of twelve (12) monthly visits with prospects and donors. Responsible for proposing and managing the development budget for the Division of Student Affairs. Requires Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree preferred) plus four years of fundraising-related experience, preferably within higher education, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Extensive travel is required, along with strong communication, organizational, interpersonal, and presentation skills. The successful candidate must possess exemplary interpersonal skills and demonstrate a genuine appreciation in working with diverse audiences. This is a fixed-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of re-funding.