Director of Development & Annual Giving

Shorter University

Director of Development & Annual Giving

Office of University Advancement

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Vice President for University Advancement, the Director of Development provides leadership and management of the direction, planning, and execution of fundraising and development-related activities for Shorter University. This will include but is not limited to, supporting major gift fundraising, corporate and foundation relations, annual giving initiatives, alumni development, athletic development, special events, grants, and communications programs to increase philanthropic support of Shorter. 

Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Be a team player by working well with those within the University.
2. Identify new donors, solicit, steward, maintain, and upgrade donors. 
3. Be able to set up personal appointments and manage a donor portfolio. 
4. Value a team approach to development, grant writing, alumni relations, and athletic fundraising. 
5. Work closely with the Vice President to establish fundraising strategies to include funding priorities, goals, prospect identification, cultivation, and the proposal (ask).
6. Create a yearly strategic plan for fundraising initiatives that outlines fundraising goals. 
7. Submit monthly reports to the Vice President for University Advancement on fundraising progress.  
8. Grant research and writing. 
9. Work directly with coaches and the general overall athletic fundraising efforts. 
10. Oversee the JustGiving Program with Athletics and the Advancement team.
11. Work together as a team in planning, developing, and executing fundraising events. 
12. Creation and mailing of announcements and appeals for annual fund donors. 
13. Facilitate planned giving asks when appropriate. 
14. Work with the alumni team to develop alumni and increase engagement. 
15. Help obtain content for social media to highlight donors, businesses, and community involvement. 
16. Support relationships between the University and its external constituents and community.
17. Other duties as assigned by the Vice President. 

Qualifications & Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree is required; a master’s degree is preferred. 
• Three to five years of progressive experience in fundraising, marketing, public relations, ministry, and/or sales. 
• Extensive travel is required. 
• Must have the flexibility to work some nights and weekends, if necessary. 
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work independently, solve problems, handle confidential information, and navigate sensitive situations.
• Strong computer skills and knowledge of CRM. (Raiser’s Edge experience preferred).
• Must be a committed Christian who can support the mission of the University

Send letter of application, unofficial transcripts of all academic work, statement of faith, resume, and three current letters of reference to:

Human Resources

Shorter University

315 Shorter Avenue

Rome, Georgia 30165

Shorter University is a Christ-centered University affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Mission Board and requires employees to be committed Christians.

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