Director of Development

Position Summary:

The Senior Director of Development for the School of Engineering is a senior fundraising professional within Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) who focuses on strategic identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major and principal gift prospects capable of making transformational gifts to support the highest priorities of the School of Engineering. This role manages a portfolio of high-capacity prospects and plays a central role in achieving fundraising goals, with a target fundraising range of $3–5 million annually. 

The Senior Director serves as a liaison and primary fundraising partner for designated engineering-affiliated institutes and centers. The role carries a specific focus on identifying, cultivating, and soliciting support from foundations and corporate entities in support of strategic priorities for the School of Engineering.

About the Work Unit:

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the engagement, identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs. You can visit our website for more information:  https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

 Strategic Fundraising Leadership 

• Develop proactive strategies to identify, qualify, and engage prospects for philanthropic investment aligned with Engineering’s priorities and university-wide objectives with a focus on $1M+ gifts. 
• Set strategic direction and execution of fundraising initiatives, with particular emphasis on engaging and growing support from unaffiliated, mission-based foundations, corporate partners and individuals that align with strategic priorities. 
• Partner with the Associate Dean of Development in annual and multi-year fundraising planning and processes. 
• Assist in setting, tracking, and assessing progress toward fundraising goals. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional DAR teams, including Transformational Philanthropy & Strategic Initiatives, Principal Gifts, Annual and Leadership Annual Giving, Corporate Relations, Foundation Relations, Gift Planning, Research and Prospect Development, Stewardship, and Alumni Relations. 
• Participate in advisory councils, and committees whose responsibilities include advancing philanthropy in support of strategic priorities.