the client is seeking a creative and strategic Director of Development to lead major gift fundraising efforts that support medical research and education. This role focuses on advancing philanthropic priorities for the client’s initiatives related to the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, with the goal of contributing to pioneering work in stroke, dementia, and mental health and helping transform lives through research and education.
Key responsibilities include leading the strategy, planning, and execution of major gift fundraising within the client, ensuring alignment with the client’s strategic priorities; cultivating and nurturing relationships with donors and stakeholders; setting fundraising direction, prospect prioritization, and fundraising approaches while balancing faculty aspirations with advancement strategy; and demonstrating strong judgment, diplomacy, and decision-making in complex environments. The role also involves mentoring faculty and staff in fundraising best practices and collaborating with the central advancement office to ensure cohesive fundraising strategies across the client.
The ideal candidate will hold a university degree in a relevant field such as business or communications and have 7–10 years of fundraising experience, including proven success securing major gifts and managing donor relationships. They should bring exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, along with a track record of ethical fundraising and sound decision-making. The client values diversity and inclusion and is committed to removing barriers while supporting the academic and professional success of its staff and faculty.