Director of Advancement

Regent University seeks a strategic and relationship-driven fundraising professional to join the Office of Advancement as a Director of Advancement (Major Gift Officer). Reporting to the AVP of Advancement, this individual will play a critical role in advancing Regent's mission by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift donors in support of university priorities, including an upcoming capital campaign designed to double residential enrollment to 4,000 students by 2030.The Director of Advancement will manage a portfolio of approximately 100-150 qualified major gift prospects and donors, with primary responsibility for securing five, six, and seven-figure gifts that directly impact student scholarships, academic programs, capital projects, and university operations. This position requires travel, strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and a demonstrated commitment to Christian higher education.Work Location: Virginia Beach, VA. Qualified candidates may be considered for remote work.Essential ResponsibilitiesPortfolio Management & Donor EngagementManage and grow a portfolio of 100-150 major gift prospects and donors capable of giving $25,000 or moreConduct face-to-face visits each month with donors and prospects to build meaningful, authentic relationshipsDevelop and execute individualized cultivation strategies for each prospect, including personalized proposals, impact reports, and stewardship touchpointsQualify prospects through strategic discovery conversations, assessing giving capacity, interests, and philanthropic motivationsMove donors through the cultivation cycle from identification to solicitation to stewardship using proven moves management strategiesClose major gifts at the five- and six-figure level annually, meeting or exceeding fundraising goals established by leadershipStrategic Fundraising & Campaign Support Actively support institutional priorities through targeted solicitation effortsCollaborate with the AVP of Advancement, President's Office, and academic leadership to align donor interests with university needsPrepare comprehensive briefing materials, customized proposals, and presentation materials for donor meetingsCoordinate with Advancement colleagues on annual giving, planned giving, and corporate/foundation relations to maximize donor engagementWork with University leadership, Board members, and key volunteers to facilitate peer-to-peer solicitationsDonor Stewardship & Relationship Building Provide exceptional stewardship for all donors in portfolio, ensuring timely and meaningful recognition of giftsCreate customized stewardship plans that demonstrate impact and inspire continued investmentCoordinate campus visits, facility tours, and engagement opportunities that connect donors to Regent's missionRecord all donor interactions, strategies, and contact reports in the donor database (CRM) within 24-48 hours of each meetingMonitor donor communication preferences and ensure personalized, mission-aligned engagementCollaboration & Institutional Representation Represent Regent University at donor events, cultivation activities, and fundraising functions, including evenings and weekends as neededWork collaboratively across departments, including Admissions, Student Life, Academics, and Communications to facilitate donor connectionsStay current on university programs, strategic initiatives, enrollment goals, and institutional achievements to effectively articulate Regent's vision and impactParticipate in professional development opportunities and maintain knowledge of fundraising best practices and trends in Christian higher educationQualificationsBachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institutionMinimum of 5 years of professional fundraising experience with demonstrated success in major gift solicitationProven track record of personally soliciting and closing gifts of $50,000 or moreExperience managing a donor portfolio and implementing strategic moves managementCandidates Must HaveExceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills with ability to connect authentically with diverse constituenciesStrong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and presentation abilitiesStrategic thinking and ability to match donor interests with institutional prioritiesProficiency with donor databases and Microsoft Office SuiteSelf-motivated, goal-oriented, and able to work independently with minimal supervisionExcellent organizational skills and attention to detail in managing complex donor relationshipsAbility to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalismFaith & Mission AlignmentCommitted follower of Jesus Christ with a mature Christian faith and personal relationship with the LordStrong commitment to Regent University's mission to provide Christian leadership to change the worldAbility to articulate and represent a Christian worldview in all aspects of the roleActive involvement in a local church communityBackground in marketing, sales, or business development preferredCommitment to Regent’s core values of Excellence, Innovation, and IntegrityPhysical Requirements & Working Conditions Travel: Travel required (25% of time), including overnight trips throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and nationally Schedule: Flexibility required for evening and weekend donor meetings, cultivation events, and university functions Physical Demands: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during travel and meetings; occasional lifting of materials up to 25 pounds Environment: Standard office environment with frequent off-site meetings in donor homes, businesses, and restaurants BenefitsRegent offers a wide range of generous benefits including health, life and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; tuition incentives; fully vested retirement plans; life and disability insurance options, time off, and more. All regular faculty and staff serving at Regent and working a minimum of 30 hours per week will receive an attractive benefits package.To ApplyInterested Candidates Should Submit The Following MaterialsCurrent resume/CVCover letter describing your fundraising philosophy, relevant experience, and alignment with Regent's Christian missionList of three professional referencesApplications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.Regent University does not discriminate in employment in its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age or veteran status. For full Non-Discrimination Policy click here.