At the University of Cincinnati Foundation, we commit ourselves to providing a place where everyone belongs. We care deeply about those in our community, while also taking care to nurture new relationships. We have the courage to dream big, drive excellence and uphold integrity in our work. We amplify our collective impact by celebrating different perspectives and embracing inclusion.
Structure
The Senior Director of Development, Athletics is an exempt (salaried) position employed by the University of Cincinnati Foundation (UCF) and reports to the Associate Vice President of Development, Athletics
Focus
The Senior Director of Development, Athletics will work as part of the University of Cincinnati Athletics Fundraising team (UCATS) to drive philanthropic resources in support of UC Athletics programs and UC student-athletes. The primary area of focus will be to manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, while also actively working to grow annual fund membership, increase donor retention and move current donors to higher giving levels.
Specific Duties
Build, qualify and manage a portfolio of assigned donors and prospects; devise and execute strategies for prospect discovery, cultivation, and solicitation; focus will be on major gifts ($100k+).
Oversee and lead a team of Development Officers and/or other UCATS staff; establish objectives, set performance standards and productivity metrics, and evaluate performance; provide appropriate levels of training, mentoring and professional development. Assign and direct projects and oversee day-to-day operations of the staff.
Provide direct assistance and leadership in the annual giving program, including the annual fund benefits program, annual fund solicitations, priority points and communications.
Actively work to grow annual fund membership, increase donor retention, reacquire lapsed donors and move current donors to higher giving levels.
Assist in the strategic planning and development of solicitation strategies for all multi-platform annual fund campaigns, capital campaigns, planned gifts, communications, premium seats, stewardship, and special events.
Coordinate with other UCF fundraising endeavors and work collaboratively across colleges and units to support University-wide priorities and interdisciplinary initiatives, as needed.
Work with UCF fundraising specialists (gift planning, corporate and foundation relations, and national programs) for the benefit of the Athletic Department and the University.
Assist department staff and donors to develop gift agreements that reflect the intentions of the donor and advance the mission of UC Athletics.
Maintain excellent working relationships with UC Athletics staff.
Prepare timely contact reports and ensure the accuracy of monthly reports.
Participate fully in the UCF prospect and clearance process.
Other duties, as assigned.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree with 7-10 years of fundraising experience, or advanced degree with 5-7 years of experience. Experience in college athletics preferred.
Record of successful major and principal level gift solicitations and closures ($100K level and above).
Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated success in coaching and mentoring team members.
Energetic, self-starting professional with a championship mindset who works well in a team environment.
Ability to manage relationships with internal and external partners.
Ability to analyze data to develop solicitation strategies, fundraising plans, campaigns, and measure outcomes.
Experience with Graphic Design, social media and other communications platforms, Ticketing software, Blackbaud CRM or other Blackbaud systems is a plus.
Organizational and analytical ability and timeliness. Ability to successfully manage multiple priorities, produce quality work and meet strict deadlines.
Strong written and communication skills; proficiency in MS Word and Excel.
Willingness to travel, including extended work during weekend/evening hours. Valid driver’s license required for travel.
What We Offer
The anticipated starting salary range for the Senior Director of Development, Athletics role is $100,000 - $120,000 annually. When determining the final offer amount the UC Foundation considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, external market data, as well as, market and business considerations when making compensation decisions.
At the UC Foundation, we understand the importance of providing both a desirable work environment as well as benefits that provide our employee’s peace of mind and work/life balance. We offer a total rewards package inclusive of performance based bonus, as well as, competitive health and wellness benefits, tuition remission, retirement with employer match, paid parental leave, and paid vacation, sick time and holidays, including calendar year-end closing. To learn more, visit our careers page.
Physical Demands
This position is considered to have light work. Exerting up to 20lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up a negligible of force constantly to move objects. This position requires the operation of a motor vehicle. This position also requires:
Standing
Walking
Lifting
Finger use
Talking
Hearing
Repetitive motion of the wrist, hands, and/or fingers
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, this position is subject to outside environmental conditions and indoor conditions.