Senior Development Manager

Senior Development Manager position at IACS, an independent global research center. A unique opportunity to advance the Institute’s mission to foster Catholic intellectual life, research, and dialogue—and bring Catholic ideas to bear in the world. More information at https://dornsife.usc.edu/iacs/careers/Company DescriptionThe Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies (IACS) is a global research center situated at the University of Southern California. It is the only institute of its kind worldwide, dedicated to fostering dialogue among scholars of all faiths and none to address humanity's enduring questions and contemporary challenges. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, IACS bridges academic disciplines and various walks of life in its pursuit of deeper understanding. It serves as a hub for scholarly research and transformative engagement within and beyond theology.Role DescriptionThe Senior Development Manager is a full-time, on-site role located in Los Angeles, CA. Responsibilities include leading and implementing fundraising efforts, developing donor cultivation strategies, managing donor relationships, and preparing comprehensive grant proposals. The role involves creating and executing strategies to achieve financial goals, contributing to long-term development planning, organizing donor events, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders. The Manager will also oversee reporting on fundraising metrics and ensure alignment with the institute’s mission.Key Responsibilities1. Strategic Planning & Fundraising LeadershipDevelop and implement a written annual and long-term strategic fundraising plan aligned with the Institute’s academic goals and missionCo-design and manage a comprehensive development program, including major gifts, annual giving, foundation grants, and planned givingMonitor and report on annual fundraising goals to the IACS President2. Major Gifts & Donor CultivationIdentify, research, and help cultivate a portfolio of high-net-worth donors, foundations, and institutional partners (typically 50-100+ prospects)Support the IACS President in moving prospective donors from engagement to solicitation and in planning face-to-face donor visitsDevelop compelling, mission-focused solicitation materials, proposals, and case statements for supportEnsure timely and meaningful stewardship and communication to retain and upgrade donors3. Institutional Advancement & CommunicationWork with staff to develop marketing materials, newsletters, and digital communications that highlight the impact of the Institute’s research2Collaborate with the IACS President, staff, and Board to identify and secure funding for specific research projects, endowments, operating funds, and academic eventsServe as an occasional ambassador for the Institute at academic conferences, Catholic events, and community gatherings4. Team Leadership & ManagementCollaborate constructively with Institute staff and consultants (as applicable)Oversee database management to ensure accurate donor records, tracking, and reportingTrack and help manage the development budget, ensuring cost-effective, high-impact activitiesQualificationsProven expertise in fundraising, donor relations, and grant writingStrong project management, organizational, and strategic planning skillsAbility to build and maintain effective relationships with donors, stakeholders, and team membersExcellent verbal and written communication skills tailored for diverse audiencesStrong commitment to the mission and values of IACSProficiency in fundraising CRM tools and donor database managementBachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree or certifications in non-profit management or fundraising are a plusPrior experience in higher education or faith-based organizations is highly desirableCapacity to work on-site and engage with the Los Angeles communityCompensation and Benefits$85,000-$110,000 full-timeThis position is not eligible for benefits at this time. A supplemental stipend in lieu of some benefits may be negotiable for the selected candidateHow to Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume with 3 references, and salary requirements to iacs@dornsife.usc.edu. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.