Director of Development

Responsibilities

• Strategize and execute individual fundraising plans to secure major and principal gifts of $100,000 or more from alumni, parents, and friends.
• Manage a comprehensive portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, including conducting 120+ in-person and virtual meetings annually.
• Identify, qualify, and cultivate new prospects for major gifts and multiyear commitments to the Whitman Leadership Circle.
• Develop strategic partnerships with external corporations and foundations to identify opportunities for philanthropic investment and sponsorship.
• Map Whitman School programs to corporate needs to propose mutually beneficial engagement and funding opportunities.
• Collaborate with Career Services, Employer Relations, and central advancement teams to align corporate and foundation engagement strategies.
• Support the Dean’s donor engagement activities through briefing preparation, prospect strategy, and post-visit follow-up.
• Maintain accurate records of all contact, activity, and interactions within the university's CRM system.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of five years of experience in external relations, corporate engagement, fundraising, sales, or similar relationship-building fields.
• Demonstrated success in major gift fundraising, including a proven track record of discovery, cultivation, and solicitation.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a complex institutional environment.

About the Company

Syracuse University is a private, international research university with a global footprint and over 150 years of history. Located in the heart of New York State, the university offers a diverse range of academic programs across 13 schools and colleges, serving a vibrant community of students, faculty, and over a quarter of a million alumni worldwide.