Strategic Leader, University Development & Major Gifts

Harvard University; Massachusetts; Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans

Wellbeing resources

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Harvard University is seeking an innovative and experienced fundraising leader to oversee University Development within AA&D. You will drive strategic fundraising initiatives, manage donor relationships, and supervise a team, ensuring collaboration with senior leaders across Harvard.

The role involves managing a portfolio of principal and major gifts, guiding prospect strategies, and coordinating with UDAS and other partners. A hybrid work arrangement in Cambridge/MA is expected.

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 manage relationships with donors and solicit seven- and eight-figure gifts.
• Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends and travel for donor and colleague meetings and events.
• Work on campus events in Cambridge, MA as needed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a comprehensive central University fundraising unit aligning goals across fundraising areas.
• Lead recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and professional development for the team.
• Foster bold, creative fundraising strategy and portfolio management with cross-functional collaboration.
• Manage a limited portfolio of principal and major gift prospects and solicit high-level gifts.
• Identify opportunities to leverage systems, tools, technology, and expertise across UDAS.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Donor relations

Strategic planning

Team management

Stakeholder engagement

Relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CRM systems

Prospect databases

Job description

Harvard University is seeking an innovative and experienced fundraising leader to oversee University Development within AA&D. You will drive strategic fundraising initiatives, manage donor relationships, and supervise a team, ensuring collaboration with senior leaders across Harvard.

The role involves managing a portfolio of principal and major gifts, guiding prospect strategies, and coordinating with UDAS and other partners. A hybrid work arrangement in Cambridge/MA is expected.