Advancement Director, Northwest/Seattle

Western Governors University; Nashville (TN); Remote; USD 106,000 - 166,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative university is seeking a passionate Advancement Director to lead fundraising efforts and enhance access to education. This role involves managing donor relationships and developing proposals to secure significant contributions. With a focus on collaboration and strategic engagement, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of education. Join a forward-thinking team committed to making a difference in the lives of students and communities. If you have a strong background in fundraising and a desire to create lasting impact, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Health Coverage

Retirement Plans

Tuition Discounts

Paid Time Off

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in major gift fundraising and relationship management.
• Strong philanthropic ties in the Northwestern-States Region.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of 100-125 donor prospects, cultivating and soliciting gifts.
• Collaborate with internal teams to meet fundraising goals.

Skills

Fundraising

Relationship Management

Communication Skills

Proposal Development

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

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Executive Talent Acquisition Partner, People & Talent Team, Western Governors University

If you’re passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country—and you’re committed to working hard to play your part in building that future—consider WGU as the next step in your career.

Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders. Working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate and creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.

The salary range for this position considers various factors such as skill sets, experience, certifications, and organizational needs. A typical range is:

Pay Range: $106,700.00 - $165,400.00

Job Description

Job Summary

• The Director will primarily work remotely but must maintain an office in the Seattle Regional Offices. Residence within a commutable distance to downtown Seattle is required.

WGU Advancement aims to make workforce education affordable and accessible by increasing access and innovating learning through philanthropic partnerships. Since 1997, WGU has transformed access to post-secondary credentials, making higher education more equitable, affordable, and achievable. Our donors reflect this spirit of innovation and generosity.

The Advancement Director manages a portfolio of 100-125 donor prospects, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts of $100,000 and above from foundations, corporations, and individuals. Responsibilities include conducting 12-15 personal visits monthly, managing relationships, and collaborating with internal teams to meet fundraising goals.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of prospects/donors, documenting all interactions and strategies.
• Develop proposals and pitch ideas to prospective donors.
• Build strong relationships with donors and develop proposals aligned with their interests.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop engagement opportunities.
• Qualify prospects and cultivate those capable of giving $100K or more.
• Help develop annual fundraising goals based on past data and new opportunities.
• Ensure proposals and reports are professionally prepared and vetted.
• Report donor activity and strategies to leadership.
• Work collaboratively across the university, adhering to policies and deadlines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of advancement programs and IRS rules regarding charitable gifts.
• Understanding of the Donor Bill of Rights.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to deliver persuasive presentations and proposals.
• Entrepreneurial and problem-solving mindset.

Qualifications

Minimum:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Six years of experience in major gift fundraising and relationship management.
• Experience with six-figure gift cultivation, closing, and stewardship.
• Residence and strong philanthropic ties in the Northwestern-States Region.
• Must maintain a home office in or near Seattle.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of project management.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting at a desk and working on a computer for prolonged periods.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Up to 25% travel and some weekend work.

Position & Application Details

Full-time, with benefits including health coverage, retirement plans, tuition discounts, and paid time off. Applications are submitted online, with internal candidates applying via Workday.

Additional Information

Disability accommodations available upon request. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics.