Title: Executive Director of Development, Presidential Initiatives

Employee Classification: Executive Dir, Development

Campus: University of North Texas

Division: UNT-Advancement

SubDivision-Department: UNT-Advancement

Department: UNT-Advancement - Gen-170000

Job Location: Denton

Salary: Commensurate with experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: ORP Eligible

About Us - Values Overview:

Department Summary

The Division of University Advancement strives to transform lives and unlock potential through the power of philanthropy and engagement by awakening and stewarding pride and loyalty for the University of North Texas.

Established in 1890, the University of North Texas is a place where students transform their lives through education and opportunity. With more than 46,000 students from across the state, nation, and world, UNT offers 240 academic programs — many nationally and internationally recognized. A Tier One research university and designated a Hispanic- and Minority-Serving Institution, UNT has a legacy of excellence in education, music, the arts, business and social sciences, with growing strengths in science and engineering. Last year, students earned nearly 13,000 degrees and joined UNT's network of 480,000 alumni, fueling progress and innovation.

The University is seeking an accomplished fundraising professional to drive philanthropic engagement with foundations, focusing on advancing key priorities in educational innovation, student success, and workforce development.

Position Overview

This role is instrumental in building partnerships that align internal resources and strategies with institutional and employer collaborations, enhancing opportunities for students and communities both regionally and beyond.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in related field and at least eight (8) years' of increasingly responsible leadership and/or management experience or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Understand key global and local issues effecting higher education.
• Strong knowledge of tax law changes.
• Strong marketing, public relations, and fundraising experience with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders and cultures.
• Experience in effectively planning, analyzing, and coordinating activities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and with many diverse constituencies.
• Experience in developing, implementing and monitoring strategic plans.
• Demonstrated success in executing fundraising activities, identifying prospects, developing strong relationships, cultivating support and stewarding gifts.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of donor information.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven track record of securing significant foundation funding for large-scale initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of the philanthropic landscape, especially in areas related to education, workforce development, and innovation.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate the inner workings of a university, including working with faculty, administrators, and institutional leaders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate complex ideas into actionable plans.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

None

Job Duties:

Foundation Engagement and Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with foundation partners aligned with the University's mission and priorities.
• Develop and execute strategies for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding foundation prospects.
• Act as the primary liaison between the University and foundation program officers, ensuring effective communication and alignment of goals.
• Serve as a key connector between Foundation leadership and the President of the University, fostering a partnership forged in collaboration and shared vision.

Strategic Alignment:

• Collaborate with President's office and strategic planning team to identify opportunities for foundation engagement that align with the University's goals in educational innovation, student success, and workforce development.
• Facilitate internal coordination to align initiatives and projects with foundation funding priorities.

Proposal Development and Grant Management:

• Oversee the development of compelling proposals and grant applications, ensuring alignment with foundation interests and University priorities.
• Monitor grant compliance and reporting requirements, maintaining positive relationships with funding partners.

University Representation:

• Represent the University in foundation-related events, meetings, and convenings, articulating the institution’s vision and impact effectively.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and partner to University leadership, providing insights and strategies for engaging with foundation partners.

Metrics and Evaluation:

• Establish measurable goals and track progress in galvanizing foundation engagement and securing philanthropic support.
• Provide regular updates to University leadership on foundation-related activities, outcomes, and strategic opportunities.

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm; Nights and weekends, plus some overnight travel, will be necessary. Hybrid work opportunities possible.

Driving University Vehicle:

Yes

Security Sensitive:

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions:

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted.

Benefits:

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement:

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.