Director of Development - Major Gifts & Planned Giving

Benedictine University; Lisle (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Disability Insurance

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plans

Tuition Reimbursement

Mental Health Support

EAP

Job summary

Benedictine University in Lisle seeks a Director of Development – Major Gifts to provide strategic leadership and execution of fundraising initiatives focused on major gifts, while supporting annual giving, planned giving, and campaigns.

You will manage a portfolio of 100–150 prospects, craft personalized cultivation plans, and collaborate with university leadership to advance a culture of philanthropy and secure multi‑year commitments.

Qualifications

• Portfolio management for major gifts (100–150 prospects) and gifts $25,000+.
• Strategic leadership across annual, planned giving, and campaigns.
• Ability to engage donors, volunteers, and institutional leaders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement major gift strategy, cultivation, and stewardship.
• Manage a 100–150 prospect portfolio with senior leadership coordination.
• Lead or support significant gift solicitations and multi-year commitments.
• Contribute to an integrated fundraising plan aligned with university priorities.
• Oversee planned giving program and donor stewardship initiatives.
• Maintain CRM records and use data analytics to guide strategy.
• Mentor staff and uphold fundraising ethics and confidentiality.

Job description

Benedictine University in Lisle seeks a Director of Development – Major Gifts to provide strategic leadership and execution of fundraising initiatives focused on major gifts, while supporting annual giving, planned giving, and campaigns.

You will manage a portfolio of 100–150 prospects, craft personalized cultivation plans, and collaborate with university leadership to advance a culture of philanthropy and secure multi‑year commitments.