Executive Director of Principal Gifts

University of Massachusetts Amherst

We believe in improving the human condition through advances in science and technology, lifting the human spirit through the arts and humanities, and fostering public discourse that is governed by reason. The University of Massachusetts Amherst is one of the nation's top public universities. We provide a dynamic, hands-on education that values creativity and we strive to be at the forefront of groundbreaking research that crosses departments and disciplines. Our students and faculty are unconventional thinkers who enjoy tackling hard problems and are driven to be a force for good in the world.

Located in the town of Amherst, our campus sits on nearly 1,450 acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. UMass Amherst offers 109 bachelor's degree programs, five associates, 77 masters and 48 doctoral programs in nine schools and colleges. We have approximately 250,000 living alumni around the world.

As we prepare for an upcoming comprehensive campaign, we are searching for an Executive Director of Principal Gifts to build and lead our Principal Gifts program. Reporting to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development, you will work to establish relationships with high net worth individuals and to grow the financial commitment and involvement of these major donors over time.

What you'll be doing:

• You drive all phases of analysis, implementation and management of a campus-wide Principal Gifts program. You manage high-profile institutional relationships between donors and faculty, staff, and administrators at the highest level of the university.
• You serve as principal gifts advisor to the Vice Chancellor and Chancellor and implement specifically crafted cultivation and solicitation strategies for a select donor portfolio.
• In close collaboration with major gift officers, you develop creative and comprehensive cultivation strategies for principal gift prospects. You work with them to execute on engagement plans to maximize philanthropic support across the institution.
• You lead the strategy development and fundraising efforts for specific campus priorities as identified by campus leadership. These initiatives are interdisciplinary and engage a broad network of campus partners.
• You will collaborate with the Alumni Relations team on events and programs to cultivate and steward top donors in support of UMass Amherst's comprehensive campaign.

We'd love to hear from you if:

• You have a consistent track record of achieving bold fundraising goals and the ability to develop creative and nuanced donor strategy.
• You possess strong communication and relationship building skills. You can capture the unique vision of what we do and inspire alumni with a sense of what’s possible.
• You demonstrate initiative and can tackle obstacles creatively in pursuit of your goals.
• You are emotionally intelligent and can diplomatically and sensitively collaborate across teams to execute initiatives effectively.
• You are results-minded and see how to capitalize on the diverse strengths of people around you to succeed.
• You are available to travel on a frequent basis and are willing to work evenings and weekends when needed.
• This position plays a high-profile role within Advancement and the university. We are searching for a collaborative and sophisticated Executive Director to cultivate relationships with some of the university's most critical prospects. You will make a significant contribution to both alumni experience and fundraising goals at a university that takes both seriously.
• If this is you, please submit your resume and letter of interest below. We will be reviewing applications immediately and will accept applications until the position is filled.

To apply, go to: https://grnh.se/e789205f1

The UMass Amherst Foundation is a growing organization that looks for team members to grow with it. We offer a generous benefits package, a diverse and inclusive culture, and a dedication to career development.

UMass Amherst has a rich history in support of social justice and in efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion on our campus. The University of Massachusetts Amherst Foundation is committed to employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.