Director, Development Strategy: Strategic Fundraising Leader

Harvard Central Administration (CADM) Talent Acquisition; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans

Wellbeing resources

Family support

Job summary

Harvard University Central Administration is seeking a Director of Development Strategy to manage systems, processes, and internal communications supporting Harvard's top solicitations and optimizing leadership engagement across AA&D and the Schools.

The successful candidate will bring deep experience in principal gift fundraising strategy, strong cross‑functional leadership, and the ability to navigate complex data and policies to drive high‑priority initiatives in a university campaigns

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years related experience.
• Ability to work evenings or weekends and travel for donor meetings.
• Cambridge, MA campus engagement and events participation may be required.

Responsibilities

• Develop familiarity with backgrounds and strategies for top prospects and donors.
• Manage development and tracking of top prospect lists for senior leadership meetings.
• Provide strategic oversight of a $10M+ solicitation portfolio and coordinate complex solicitations.
• Direct logistics for forums to develop plans for top prospects and liaise with fundraising partners.
• Provide cross‑functional leadership for leadership communications, travel, and briefing content.
• Recruitment and management of presidential committees; solicit input from schools.
• Oversee annual event request process and contribute to event strategy and seating plans.
• Drive alignment with policy systems and data considerations for university‑wide prospect coordination.
• Mentor the Assistant Director, Development Strategy, and conduct performance reviews.

Skills

Strategic planning

Fundraising experience

Leadership

Cross‑functional collaboration

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

CRM systems

Database management

Job description

Harvard University Central Administration is seeking a Director of Development Strategy to manage systems, processes, and internal communications supporting Harvard's top solicitations and optimizing leadership engagement across AA&D and the Schools.

The successful candidate will bring deep experience in principal gift fundraising strategy, strong cross‑functional leadership, and the ability to navigate complex data and policies to drive high‑priority initiatives in a university campaigns