Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from NKU Graduate Education
Job overview
The Associate Director of Development at NKU Graduate Education is responsible for managing major gift prospects and securing significant donations to support university priorities.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves soliciting gifts of $10,000 or more, managing a portfolio of prospects, collaborating with various university departments, maintaining donor records, and serving as a liaison to university units to develop strategic fundraising plans.
Compensation and benefits
Salary is to be determined with a pay grade of S73; no specific benefits are detailed in the description.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have a bachelor's degree and at least two years of direct solicitation experience, strong communication skills, and proficiency with Microsoft Windows applications; knowledge of Raiser’s Edge is preferred.
Work environment and culture
The position requires a positive growth mindset, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for higher education, indicating a culture valuing development and collaboration.
Company information
NKU Graduate Education is part of a university focused on higher education and development, emphasizing philanthropic support and academic collaboration.
Team overview
The candidate will work under the Senior Director of Development and collaborate with prospect research, alumni relations, annual giving teams, and academic leaders.
Job location and travel
The position follows a regular Monday to Friday schedule with some nights and weekends required, including some travel; specific location details are not provided.
Application process
Applicants can apply through the provided NKU jobs link; no additional application instructions or deadlines beyond the job close date are specified.
Unique job features
The job features managing a major gift portfolio with a focus on leadership-level donations and close collaboration with academic and development teams to align fundraising with university priorities.
Company overview
NKU Graduate Education is the division of Northern Kentucky University responsible for overseeing and supporting advanced degree programs, including master's, doctoral, and certificate offerings across a variety of disciplines. The university generates revenue primarily through tuition, research grants, and partnerships with regional employers and organizations seeking workforce development. Founded in 1968, NKU has grown into a significant educational institution in the Greater Cincinnati area, emphasizing community engagement and applied learning. The graduate division is known for fostering innovation, professional growth, and interdisciplinary collaboration among students and faculty. Candidates should be aware of NKU’s commitment to diversity, regional impact, and its strategic focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles in their fields.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your direct solicitation experience and success in managing major gift portfolios, emphasizing your ability to secure gifts of $10,000 or more and meet fundraising goals like $500,000 annually.
Emphasize your skills in donor relationship management, including stewardship, collaboration with academic leaders, and experience using donor databases such as Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar CRM tools.
Apply through multiple channels including NKU’s official career site and LinkedIn to maximize your application’s exposure and ensure you meet all deadlines and requirements.
Connect on LinkedIn with current major gift officers, the Senior Director of Development, or staff within NKU’s University Development division; start conversations by referencing recent university fundraising campaigns or expressing admiration for their commitment to higher education philanthropy.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'major gift solicitation,' 'donor stewardship,' 'Raiser’s Edge NXT,' 'portfolio management,' and 'fundraising strategy' to pass automated screenings.
Jennie Johnson’s Power Apply feature can automate tailoring your resume, identify the best application portals, and find relevant NKU contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and strategic follow-ups.
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