Senior Director of Development

The Senior Director of Development for the College of Arts, Science & Education (CASE) at Florida International University (FIU) is a senior leadership position responsible for driving philanthropic support for the College. This individual will oversee and manage a comprehensive development strategy that includes major gift fundraising, donor relations, special initiatives and campaigns. The Senior Director will work closely with faculty, academic leadership, the FIU Foundation, and University Advancement teams to create and execute fundraising strategies that align with the College's academic priorities and strategic goals.

Leads and implements the College's fundraising strategy, focusing on securing major gifts ($50,000 ), planned giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation support. Develops comprehensive annual and multi-year fundraising goals aligned with the College's strategic priorities and institutional needs.

Manages a portfolio of high-net-worth donors and prospects, with a primary focus on securing significant gifts for scholarships, faculty support, research initiatives, and program development. Works closely with university leadership, faculty, and development staff to craft personalized cultivation and solicitation strategies.

Partners with the Executive Dean and the School Deans, faculty, and department chairs to ensure alignment between the College's academic vision and fundraising goals. Provides strategic advice to academic leaders on funding priorities and donor engagement opportunities.

Cultivates and stewards long-term relationships with donors and prospective donors, ensuring their ongoing engagement with the College and the University. Develops and implements personalized stewardship plans, ensuring donors are informed of the impact of their gifts.

Works closely with the FIU Foundation, University Advancement, and central development teams to develop and implement coordinated fundraising campaigns. Engages with other key departments, including communications and alumni relations, to ensure messaging and outreach efforts are aligned.

Provides leadership and expertise in the planning and execution of special initiatives and campaigns, working alongside senior leadership to develop strategies and secure lead gifts. Manages donor relations for campaign-related activities and events.

Works with the communications team to create and maintain compelling fundraising materials, including donor newsletters, annual reports, proposals, and impact reports. Ensures that fundraising communications accurately represents the College's mission and priorities.

Oversees the planning and execution of high-level donor events, including major gift cultivation dinners, donor recognition events, and other fundraising initiatives. Ensures that events effectively engage donors and increase their commitment to the College.

May handle donated funds in the forms of checks or negotiable securities. Accesses confidential information regarding gifts and donors.

Represents the University and/or the college at public functions as needed.

Tracks and reports on progress towards fundraising goals, ensuring accurate and timely documentation of donor interactions in the donor management system (CRM). Monitors the budget for fundraising activities and ensure that resources are used effectively to achieve fundraising targets.

Conducts research and stay informed on current trends in philanthropy, higher education, and the arts, sciences, and education sectors. Identify new donor prospects and funding opportunities that align with the College's needs.