Senior Director, Donor Relations & Stewardship

The University of Vermont Foundation; Burlington (VT); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plan

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

403(b) with immediate vesting

Tuition remission

Job summary

The University of Vermont Foundation seeks an Executive Director of Donor Relations & Stewardship to lead a donor-centered program that acknowledges generosity, demonstrates impact, and strengthens long‑term relationships with the University of Vermont.

The role sets strategy, standards, and measurable outcomes for donor acknowledgment, recognition, engagement, and impact reporting, with emphasis on principal and major gifts.

Qualifications

• Strong relationship-building skills and ability to manage long-term donor relationships.
• Experience leading, coaching, and developing professional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong editing prowess.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee a multiyear donor relations and stewardship strategy.
• Supervise Directors of Donor Fund Administration, Major Gift Stewardship, and Development Events.
• Ensure accurate donor communications, impact reporting, and stewardship for principal/major gifts.

Skills

Donor relations

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Editing/writing

Confidentiality

Travel ability

Education

Bachelor’s degree + 8–10 years experience

Higher education or nonprofit experience preferred

Job description

The University of Vermont Foundation seeks an Executive Director of Donor Relations & Stewardship to lead a donor-centered program that acknowledges generosity, demonstrates impact, and strengthens long‑term relationships with the University of Vermont.

The role sets strategy, standards, and measurable outcomes for donor acknowledgment, recognition, engagement, and impact reporting, with emphasis on principal and major gifts.