Director of Development

The Director of Development (DoD) is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding current and potential donors to secure gifts supporting Meharry Medical College’s strategic priorities and fundraising initiatives. The DoD will manage a portfolio of approximately 100-125 active donors and prospects with special emphasis on securing major gifts for the College, including support for Campaign 150, the College’s $350 million capital campaign celebrating the 150th anniversary of Meharry.

ResponsibilitiesManage a portfolio of approximately 100-125 active donors and prospects with specific goals and benchmarks intended to secure annual, major, planned, and estate gifts; along with determining their level of support and engagement. Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts on behalf of the College. Organize prospect visits efficiently and strategically. Include key Meharry faculty, staff, leadership, and/or trustees as appropriate to build relationships and secure gifts. Communicate with all parties via briefings, cultivation and solicitation plans/updates, and donor correspondence. Record progress via contact reports, cultivation and solicitation updates, correspondence, and other documentation; use of Raiser’s Edge in a timely and effective manner. Regularly meet with manager to discuss prospect assignments, portfolio review, cultivation and solicitation strategies, and general fundraising progress. Effective use of prospect research. Communicate with Advancement Operations staff regarding updates to donor or prospect records. Strive to meet and exceed productivity metrics, including visits, proposals, gifts closed. Travel regionally and nationally. Monitor travel budget and expenditures. Represent Institutional Advancement via internal education/outreach opportunities for Meharry faculty and staff. Build knowledge of Meharry and its funding priorities to articulate a compelling case for support to constituents. Collaborate with Alumni Relations and other College departments/divisions to engage alumni and friends in meaningful ways, and encourage increased levels of involvement and philanthropic support. Attend special events representing Institutional Advancement as a means of engaging donors and prospects. Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Required Skills Minimum of five to seven years of experience in fundraising or equivalent; experience in higher education preferred.Demonstrated experience as a successful fundraiser in a complex and dynamic environment such as a higher education institution, healthcare and hospital system, or voluntary health association.Previous campaign experience and/or experience cultivating, soliciting, and securing six-figure gifts and above.Experience using Microsoft Office, Raiser’s Edge (or similar database) preferred.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.Values a team environment and collaboration. Ability to plan, implement, and manage multiple projects.Action-oriented and full of energy; seizes opportunities when they arise.Invites open dialogue and candid discussions focused on bringing out the best in people; creates a feeling of belonging to the team.Authentic appreciation for the role that Meharry Medical College plays as a premier medical college and a Historically Black College and University institution.Upholds the Code of Ethical Standards and the Donors Bill of Rights as outlined by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Travel and some evening/weekend work required. Must hold a valid driver’s license.

Required Education and ExperienceA Bachelor’s degree is required. A Master’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is an advantage.