Major Gift Director - Higher Ed. jobs in Mississippi

Special Instructions to Applicants
When applying for this position, please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for three (3) references.

 Job Summary 
 Develops charitable support for the University through the USM Foundation. Identifies prospects, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors to raise major gifts of $25,000 or more in support of University objectives. Meets defined visit and solicitation goals and works closely with the Chief Development Officer, deans, faculty, staff, volunteers and other key stakeholders to achieve those goals. Works autonomously towards goals set in consultation with supervisors.

 Primary Duties and Responsibilities  

1. Cultivates and solicits donors to include development and implementation of prospect strategy, preparation of written materials, direct solicitation, and, if appropriate, solicitation in tandem with volunteers, deans, and other staff. Develops and carries out effective cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies. Requests assistance from the deans, school directors, faculty, athletic department, volunteers and other USM Foundation staff with specific stewardship, cultivation and solicitation needs as required. Stewards relationships with existing donors.
2. Maintains records of visits, solicitations, and cultivation statuses in accordance with system requirements and Foundation protocols. Records detailed interaction of all visits and prospect management including proposals to prospects and gifts donated to the Foundation.
3. Independently and successfully manages a portfolio of prospective donors. Works with Research team to identify new prospects for major and planned gifts to maintain a robust pipeline of prospects. Ensures that all assigned prospects are being managed effectively and adjusts strategy as needed.
4. Manages an expense budget to optimize utilization of resources to achieve stated goals. Plans and implements personal travel, as necessary. Completes expense reports on a timely basis.
5. Meets defined visit, solicitation and gift closure goals. Exercises and promotes good judgment, discretion in interactions and application of ethics related to development activities. Mentors Development Officers in their continued development and professional growth in the fundraising area. Assists the Chief Development Officer in the training and guidance of new Development Officers.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.