Executive Director of Development

Columbia University Irving Medical Center; United States; On-site; USD 190,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical institution is seeking an Executive Director of Development for its Department of Ophthalmology. This role involves driving strategic fundraising initiatives, managing major gift donors, and overseeing fundraising strategies. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree, preferably a Master’s, with at least seven years of relevant experience. Excellent communication, management, and organizational skills are critical. The position demands a proactive approach in a fast-paced environment, with the potential for work beyond normal hours.

Qualifications

• At least seven years of related experience in development fundraising or a related field.
• Proven ability to work successfully with major gift solicitations.
• Excellent knowledge of management information systems and software programs.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects.
• Implement high‑level fundraising strategy with departmental leadership.
• Prepare annual objectives for fundraising activities.
• Supervise a dedicated Development Associate.

Skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Management and administrative skills

Ability to work under pressure

High level of confidentiality

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Executive Director of Development – Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Be among the first 25 applicants. Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s Office of Development is seeking an inspiring Executive Director of Development to drive strategic fundraising initiatives for the Department of Ophthalmology.
Reporting jointly to the Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and the DVP for Development, VP&S, the Executive Director will lead the fundraising program, manage major gift donors, and cultivate relationships that support major gifts of $100,000 and above.

Pay Range

$190,000.00/yr – $210,000.00/yr

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects consisting of corporations, foundations and individuals; develop strategies and cultivate relationships that lead to solicitation and stewardship of major gifts of $100,000 and above.
• Implement high‑level fundraising strategy, including staffing the Department Chair on major gifts prospects, developing briefing documents, proposals, prep and follow‑up materials and contact reports.
• Work with the annual fund team and communications and donor relations teams to manage and expand annual fund initiatives such as direct mail, newsletters and informational brochures, e‑solicitations, special appeals, and annual fund donor cultivation and stewardship activities.
• Oversee the production and management of assigned strategic events, including professorship celebrations, donor cultivation events, board meetings, and coordination of stewardship initiatives while serving as internal and external liaison to Department Chair, faculty, and the advisory board.
• Prepare annual objectives for the upcoming academic year (e.g., dollars to be raised, solicitations planned, and cultivation/stewardship activities); discuss with departmental leadership and the VP of Development to establish mutually agreed criteria.
• Supervise a dedicated Development Associate; perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least seven years of related experience; seven years of progressively responsible experience in development fundraising or a related field, preferably in a health care environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; strong interpersonal, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Management and administrative skills required to motivate, direct and evaluate staff and volunteers to accomplish fundraising goals.
• Proven ability to work successfully in a busy and rigorous environment with major gift solicitations.
• Excellent knowledge of management information systems and software programs and the integration of such programs with other donor‑based gift records and systems.
• High level of confidentiality, discretion, independence, and judgment; ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor with a high degree of sophistication.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast‑paced office environment; willingness to work beyond regular hours, including evenings and weekends, as projects and events require.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree preferred.

Job Type

Regular – Officer of Administration

Employment Type

Full‑time

Seniority Level

Executive

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.