Senior Director of Development - Major Gifts & Institutes

St. John; New York (NY); On-site; USD 145,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

St. John's University is seeking a Senior Director of Development for Divisions and Institutes on the Queens Campus. Lead major gift fundraising across university-wide initiatives, manage ~150 prospects, and secure gifts of $25,000 and above.

Collaborate with senior leadership and Advancement teams to align funding priorities and strategic goals. The role requires 8-12 years in fundraising with strong CRM and donor analytics experience, and a track record of closing major gifts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• 8-12 years of progressive fundraising/advancement experience.
• 7+ years of leadership and major gift solicitation (>$25,000).
• Experience building donor relationships and managing complex pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of ~150 prospects for major gifts.
• Develop strategies for cultivation, engagement, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Lead gift negotiations and close gifts aligned with priorities.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to development staff.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship Building

Communication

Problem Solving

Technical Proficiency

CRM Expertise

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Ellucian Advance/Banner

Salesforce (Affinaquest/Ascend)

Blackbaud Raiser's Edge/NXT

Job description

St. John's University is seeking a Senior Director of Development for Divisions and Institutes on the Queens Campus. Lead major gift fundraising across university-wide initiatives, manage ~150 prospects, and secure gifts of $25,000 and above.

Collaborate with senior leadership and Advancement teams to align funding priorities and strategic goals. The role requires 8-12 years in fundraising with strong CRM and donor analytics experience, and a track record of closing major gifts.