Major Gifts Leader, Associate Director of Philanthropy

CASE; DeKalb (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Illinois University is seeking an Associate Director of Philanthropy to inspire transformational giving and advance the university's mission. You will connect alumni, donors, and friends with opportunities that create lasting impact for students, faculty, and programs across the university.

The role emphasizes building meaningful relationships, driving major and planned gifts, and using data to optimize fundraising performance while maintaining high ethical standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required with 3 years of major gift solicitation or 3 years in fundraising/alumni relations.
• Capital campaign experience in higher education is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of donor records systems, data tracking and fundraising tools.
• Proven ability to build relationships anchored in trust and integrity.

Responsibilities

• Portfolio management of 125+ major gift prospects through all donor lifecycle stages.
• Develop and execute cultivation plans to secure major gifts of $10,000+.
• Create donor-centered strategies with moves management to deepen engagement.
• Collaborate with university leadership and Foundation colleagues on fundraising strategies.
• Prepare gift proposals and stewardship materials and ensure timely documentation.

Skills

Major gift solicitation

Donor cultivation

Relationship building

Strategic planning

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Capital campaign experience in higher education

Knowledge of Microsoft Office

Tools

ARC donor management system

Microsoft Office

Moves management approach

Job description

Northern Illinois University is seeking an Associate Director of Philanthropy to inspire transformational giving and advance the university's mission. You will connect alumni, donors, and friends with opportunities that create lasting impact for students, faculty, and programs across the university.

The role emphasizes building meaningful relationships, driving major and planned gifts, and using data to optimize fundraising performance while maintaining high ethical standards.