Strategic Fundraising Executive — University Development

Harvard Central Administration (CADM) Talent Acquisition; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Insurance (medical/dental/vision)

Retirement plan

Tuition assistance

Professional development

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Harvard University Central Administration (CADM) seeks an innovative fundraising leader to oversee University Development within AA&D, including corporate and foundation relations, international philanthropy, and principal gifts. The Senior Executive Director will drive a proactive fundraising strategy and donor relationship management across central priorities and School-based needs.

Reporting to the AVP for UDAS, the role emphasizes data-informed approaches, collaboration, and strong

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of 15 years of fundraising and management experience, preferably in higher education.
• Strong fundraising experience with demonstrated ability to solicit seven- and eight-figure gifts.
• Ability to travel and work occasional evenings or weekends for donor meetings and events.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a comprehensive central fundraising unit aligning goals across areas and evaluating impact.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and talent management for direct reports, including hiring and development.
• Foster bold fundraising strategy and portfolio management with cross‑team collaboration.
• Manage a limited portfolio of principal and major gift prospects and solicit high‑level gifts.
• Collaborate with UDAS colleagues to leverage systems and technology for fundraising initiatives.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Donor relationship management

Team leadership

Strategic fundraising

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Raiser's Edge

CRM software

Videoconferencing tools

Job description

Harvard University Central Administration (CADM) seeks an innovative fundraising leader to oversee University Development within AA&D, including corporate and foundation relations, international philanthropy, and principal gifts. The Senior Executive Director will drive a proactive fundraising strategy and donor relationship management across central priorities and School-based needs.

Reporting to the AVP for UDAS, the role emphasizes data-informed approaches, collaboration, and strong