Executive Director, Major & Leadership Gifts

Iowa State University Foundation; Ames (IA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Iowa State University Foundation in Ames seeks an Executive Director of Development to lead strategy for principal and leadership gifts. You will oversee donor-facing programs, mentor staff, and personally fundraise for high-priority projects with a portfolio of major donors.

Reporting to university and foundation leadership, this role emphasizes collaboration, data-driven decision making, and timely donor engagement to grow gifts of $1 million and more across units.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Advanced degree or professional certification preferred.
• 8 years of professional fundraising experience.
• Experience collaborating with collegiate leaders and coordinating complex strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy discussions for principal & leadership gifts and support staff.
• Oversee donor-facing activities and manage a portfolio of high-value donors.
• Coordinate strategy with university and foundation leadership to guide $1M+ gifts.
• Monitor reporting, pipeline development, and data accuracy to drive growth.

Skills

Donor relations

Fundraising strategy

Leadership coaching

Data interpretation

Communication

Relationship management

Microsoft Office

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree or professional certification (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The Iowa State University Foundation in Ames seeks an Executive Director of Development to lead strategy for principal and leadership gifts. You will oversee donor-facing programs, mentor staff, and personally fundraise for high-priority projects with a portfolio of major donors.

Reporting to university and foundation leadership, this role emphasizes collaboration, data-driven decision making, and timely donor engagement to grow gifts of $1 million and more across units.