Director of Philanthropy & Development

University of California - Irvine; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 111,000 - 136,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Irvine is seeking a Director of Development in the School of Physical Sciences (SoPS) to lead major gift strategies, manage donor relations, and drive fundraising campaigns in collaboration with the Executive Director of Development and the Dean. The role emphasizes external fundraising, proposal development, and stewardship across campus.

The position requires at least 5 years of fundraising experience, a bachelor's degree, and strong proficiency in Salesforce and MS

Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of fundraising, donor relations, and public relations concepts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with political acumen to secure gifts.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and with university leadership.
• Experience with donor databases and reporting.
• Bachelor's degree and 5+ years in fundraising or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Plan and direct large-scale fundraising campaigns across multiple components.
• Develop and manage a major gift portfolio and solicit gifts.
• Lead event logistics, staffing, and travel arrangements.
• Prepare donor materials and presentations for leadership.
• Collaborate with UA and school leaders to advance fundraising priorities.
• Maintain records and reporting in fundraising systems.

Skills

Donor relations

Public relations

Proposal writing

Executive communication

Project management

Confidentiality

Independent work

Microsoft Office

Salesforce

Donor stewardship

Travel coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in related area

Tools

Salesforce

Microsoft Office

Job description

University of California, Irvine is seeking a Director of Development in the School of Physical Sciences (SoPS) to lead major gift strategies, manage donor relations, and drive fundraising campaigns in collaboration with the Executive Director of Development and the Dean. The role emphasizes external fundraising, proposal development, and stewardship across campus.

The position requires at least 5 years of fundraising experience, a bachelor's degree, and strong proficiency in Salesforce and MS