Executive Director of Philanthropy

Executive Director of PhilanthropyUniversity Development, NC StateEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPortfolio Management: Actively manage a personal portfolio of approximately 50–75 high-capacity prospects and donors with a focus on securing commitments in the $1M – $5M range.Pipeline Development: Serve as the primary strategist for the "Leadership Giving" pipeline; systematically identify Major Gift prospects ($100k level) with the capacity to scale to 7-figure giving and develop long-term cultivation plans.Solicitation: Initiate and conduct personal meetings with prospects throughout the year; lead and participate in complex solicitations involving blended gifts (cash, pledge, estate).Strategic Collaboration: Partner with the Principal Gifts team and leadership to ensure seamless transitions for donors reaching the $5M+ capacity; collaborate with Deans to co-manage prospects with specific academic interests.Program Leadership & StrategyStrategic Planning: Design and implement strategies to identify, cultivate, and solicit individuals rated at the $1M–$5M level.Internal Leadership: Foster a unified approach to donor-centric philanthropy and coach Directors of Philanthropy across the university.Proposal Development: Oversee complex funding proposals and briefing materials for senior university officers regarding Leadership Giving prospects.Stewardship: Design stewardship plans for the $1M–$5M donor tier, ensuring deep connection and priming future support.Liaison Role: Serve as liaison between Central Major Gifts and Principal Gifts to maximize philanthropic support.Minimum Education and ExperienceBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.8 or more years of progressive experience in institutional advancement or a related field.Proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts.Other Required QualificationsDemonstrated success in cultivating, soliciting, and closing gifts in the $1,000,000+ range, preferably in higher education.Strategic thinking and ability to develop targeted strategies for transformational gifts.Collaborative ability to build trust-based relationships with faculty, administrators, and colleagues.Deep understanding of donor movement from Major to Leadership to Principal giving levels.Excellent written and verbal communication skills; high emotional intelligence.Commitment to confidentiality of sensitive information.High level of creativity, initiative, optimism, perseverance, and a positive attitude.Preferred QualificationsComprehensive campaign experience at a Tier One research university.Experience negotiating complex gift agreements, including blended gifts and multi-year pledges.Experience managing or mentoring senior-level fundraising staff.Required License(s) or Certification(s)A valid North Carolina Driver's License required within 60 days of start date.Benefits and PerksAs a Pack member, you belong here, and you enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance personal and professional well-being, including child-care benefits, wellness and recreation membership, and wellness programs.EEO StatementNC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact the Office of Equal Opportunity. Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.J-18808-Ljbffr