Strategic Philanthropy Director

Kettering University; Flint (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job description

About Kettering: Kettering University is a national leader in experiential STEM and business education, integrating an intense academic curriculum with applied professional experience. We inspire students to realize their potential and advance their ideas by combining theory and practice better than any institution in the world. Kettering University is dedicated to achieving the extraordinary through technological innovation, leadership, and service, built on values that foster respect, integrity, creativity, collaboration, and excellence in growth, global leadership, community outreach, and an engaged community of stakeholders.

Benefits: include health, dental and vision coverage; retirement benefits with up to a 9% Kettering matching contribution; life and accident insurance; tuition assistance and waiver programs; vacation and holiday pay; sick and disability pay; home purchase assistance program; recreation center membership; and many other benefits.

To learn more please view the Kettering University Profile.

• Bachelor’s degree required;
• Minimum 3 years of proven fund raising experience and a successful track record in gift solicitation OR 2 to 5 years related experience in industry with preference given to those with deep institutional knowledge of Kettering University;
• Disciplined self-starter who regularly sets and achieves work goals;
• Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and networking skills with large groups as well as individuals;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required;
• Ability to work well in a small team environment;
• Knowledge of engineering and the ability to close solicitations;
• Must be willing to travel and work irregular hours as needed.

Understanding and commitment to Kettering University Values

• a. RESPECT : for teamwork, honesty, encouragement, diversity partnerships with students.
• b. INTEGRITY : including accountability, transparency and ethics.
• c. CREATIVITY : fostering flexibility and innovation.
• d. COLLABORATION : across disciplines and with all partners.
• e. EXCELLENCE : in all we do.

Special Event Expectations: Participation and assistance is expected at major campus special events, such as commencement.

Posting Information

Posting Number

Posting Number SP00491

Posting Date

Posting Date 09/14/2026

Closing Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Job Duties

• Job Duties
• Percent of total time 85
• Oversee a portfolio of existing individual donors and identify new prospective donors to cultivate, solicit, and steward. Cultivate existing individual donors and encourage renewal and increased donor support. Collaborate with other staff on rating, solicitation and stewardship strategies.
• Percent of total time 10
• Participate in planning and staffing fundraising and friend-raising events.
• Percent of total time 5
• Support the overall work of the University Advancement office including Alumni Engagement, Special Events, Corporate and Foundation Giving, and External Relations.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*)

• Please provide the specific name of the publication or website where you learned about this posting. (Open Ended Question)

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

Optional Documents

Kettering University, 1700 University Ave. Flint, MI 48504