Job Summary:
The Senior Director of Philanthropy is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing and driving the strategic direction of all fundraising efforts at Frontier Nursing University, across major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, and other philanthropic initiatives. This role will lead a high-performing team of fundraising professionals to cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with donors to secure both immediate and long-term financial support for the organization. The Senior Director will work closely with the Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) to implement and refine fundraising strategies, ensuring that the organization meets its financial goals and deepens its relationships with supporters.
Supervisor Responsibility:
This position has supervisory authority over a team of fundraisers in annual giving, major giving and planned giving. This position will supervise two positions currently, with additional positions expected to be added as part of the strategic plan and in preparation for a campaign.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Fundraising Oversight:
- In collaboration with the Chief Advancement Officer, lead and execute the comprehensive fundraising strategy for major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, and special campaigns.
- Develop and implement annual and multi-year fundraising plans to meet organizational financial targets.
- Partner with the CAO to define and implement the organization's overall advancement goals and ensure alignment with mission priorities.
- Partner with the CAO to prepare and implement a comprehensive campaign encompassing FNU's strategic goals.
Major Gifts and Donor Stewardship:
- Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gifts from individuals to advance the organization's priorities.
- Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with top-tier donors, fostering a culture of philanthropy.
- Build and maintain a portfolio of 50+ major gift donors and prospects with the potential of giving $25,000+.
- Oversee donor stewardship and recognition programs to ensure ongoing engagement and support.
Team Leadership and Staff Development:
- Manage and mentor a high-performing team of fundraising professionals across various fundraising functions (major gifts, annual giving, planned giving).
- Set clear goals, provide professional development opportunities, and ensure continuous improvement of fundraising efforts.
- Foster a collaborative and results-oriented team culture.
Annual and Planned Giving Programs:
- Oversee the strategy, implementation, and growth of the annual giving program, ensuring consistent and sustainable revenue streams.
- Lead the planned giving program, working closely with potential donors to secure future gifts through bequests, charitable trusts, and other planned giving vehicles.
Collaboration and Cross-Functional Relationships:
- Collaborate with other senior leaders, including those in marketing, communications, and programmatic teams, to ensure cohesive messaging and fundraising efforts.
- Partner with the CAO to support donor engagement, including organizing and leading donor cultivation and stewardship events.
Data Management & Reporting:
- Ensure accurate and timely tracking and reporting of fundraising progress, donor engagement, and financial goals.
- Use data to assess fundraising performance, identify trends, and optimize strategies for donor acquisition and retention.
External Relations and Representation:
- Serve as a senior ambassador for the organization, representing FNU at donor meetings, public speaking engagements, and networking events.
- Develop and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals, institutional funders, and volunteer leadership.
- Provide service to the University through activities such as involvement in FNU shared governance (e.g. committees, workgroups), FNU sponsored activities (e.g. charity drives, community-outreach activities), and/or service to the profession (e.g. presentations, professional organization committee work).
- Adhere to the elements of the Culture of Caring
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing a team of fundraising professionals.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals, board members, and senior leadership.
- Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach, and an ability to execute in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Knowledge of fundraising best practices, donor cultivation techniques, and CRM software (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, etc.).
- Passion for Frontier Nursing University's mission and a deep commitment to philanthropy.
- Work nights and weekends as required.
- Frequent travel across the United States required.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree required.
- A minimum of 8 years of fundraising experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing a staff of fundraisers.
- Proven track record of success in major gift solicitation and closing, as well as experience in annual giving and planned giving. Proven experience with preparing and executing a capital campaign.
Physical Requirements:
Should include any physical requirements, such as standing/sitting for long periods of time, ability to lift 25+ pounds, etc.
Reporting Relationship:
Reports directly to the Chief Advancement Officer
Work Location:
Eligible for hybrid telecommuting agreement after 30 days of employment. Must live near the Greater Lexington, KY area to assist with developing community relationships.