Sr. Director of Development

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a Sr. Director of Development to lead major gift campaigns and strategic fundraising initiatives.

The role emphasizes donor engagement, project leadership, and collaboration with university leadership to advance philanthropic priorities. Applicants should have extensive fundraising experience, strong communication and leadership abilities, and a track record of managing complex campaigns within higher education.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of professional-level fundraising experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and presentation skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong leadership and discretion/confidentiality.
• Working knowledge of office tools and database management.

Skills

Fundraising experience

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Discretion

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree

Job description

Posting Information

Department: Arts and Sciences Foundation-300101

Career Area: Development and Fundraising

Posting Open Date: 10/08/2026

Application Deadline: 10/29/2026

Open Until Filled: No

Position Type: Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)

Working Title: Sr. Director of Development

Appointment Type: EHRA Non-Faculty

Position Number: 20063355

Vacancy ID: NF0010102

Full Time/Part Time: Full-Time Permanent

FTE: 1

Hours per week: 40

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications

Proposed Start Date: 11/30/2026

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package , paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

As the largest unit on campus, the College of Arts and Sciences forms the academic core of the Carolina experience. Our mission is to create knowledge and discover innovative solutions to the world’s greatest challenges, to educate outstanding undergraduate and graduate students, and to encourage faculty, staff and students to contribute meaningfully to North Carolina, the nation, and the world.

UNC’s Arts and Sciences Foundation exists to raise philanthropic support for the highest development priorities of the College of Arts and Sciences. Under the leadership and governance of its Board of Directors, and with support from alumni and friends of the College, the Foundation works to raise and steward expendable and endowment funds that support the College’s research, creative, and teaching mission. Currently, the College benefits from over $1.5B in endowment funds, which includes over $600M in the Arts and Sciences Foundation and more than $1B in the UNC -Chapel Hill Foundation and the UNC -CH Foundation.

In the Campaign for Carolina, the Foundation team raised over $764 million, exceeding its goal of $750 million. As the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill lays the foundation for its next campaign, the Foundation anticipates an exciting period of growth in the team, resources and activity. The Foundation works collaboratively with University Development and schools and units across campus to maximize philanthropic investment for the greatest benefit to the College and University.

Position Summary

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Master’s or Bachelor’s and 0-2 years’ experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

A minimum of five years of professional-level, direct solicitation/fundraising experience is required. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and presentational skills required. Superior written and verbal communication skills required. Strong leadership skills required. Working knowledge of computer-related office tools and database management required. Strong personal integrity and work ethic. This position requires a high level of discretion, confidentiality, and ethics.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

Six years of development, sales, or related experience is preferred. Candidates with experience in a university or major college setting and with a successful track record in closing major, principal, and planned gifts preferred. Comprehensive campaign experience is also preferred.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title: Katy Galbraith, Business Services Coordinator

Department Contact Telephone or Email: [e-mail]

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.