Job Details

Executive Director, Annual Giving

Brandeis University – a distinguished private research university recognized for its academic excellence and leading-edge research – has an exciting opportunity for a talented and motivated Executive Director of Annual Giving.

Located in the suburbs of Boston, a global hub for higher education and innovation, Brandeis is dedicated to first-rate undergraduate education while making groundbreaking discoveries.

Position Summary

As a member of the Institutional Advancement Development team, the Executive Director of Annual Giving (EDAG) is responsible for setting and executing an overarching strategy to drive flexible support and pipeline development for the University. Central to this is developing a strategy to engage alumni, parents, faculty and staff, and friends to participate philanthropically in advancing the mission of the University.

The incumbent will work collaboratively with senior leaders and colleagues across the institution to develop strategies that translate into tactics to drive participation via channels that include direct mail, email, volunteers, annual gift officers, and other channels.

Primary Responsibilities

• Responsible for setting and achieving aspirational goals for donor growth and unrestricted dollars. In partnership with Development leadership and fundraising colleagues, ensure prospects are solicited across the pyramid to drive flexible funds for the University.
• Responsible for developing an overarching strategy for growth of $1,000+ by donors by creating and leveraging a multi-channel approach to engaging prospects with direct marketing, volunteers, and staff.
• Leverage strong data analysis to drive future strategies. Collaborating with colleagues, develop robust reporting and analytical tools to analyze current fundraising strategies and inform future efforts.
• Oversee the work of the Family Philanthropy team, Direct Marketing, Annual Giving Officers, and reunion and affinity fundraising.
• Engage a portfolio of prospects in support of the University. Secure $1,000+ gifts with keen attention to flexible funds for the University.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required. Advanced degrees and/or fundraising certification are highly desired.
• Minimum 8-10 years of relevant work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute high-level and multi-channel annual giving efforts.
• Proven track record of working in a dynamic, evolving, and highly energetic fundraising environment.
• Must be able and willing to work occasional evenings and weekends with an attitude of doing what it takes to get the job done.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, equity and inclusion are important values at Brandeis today and always have been for they are rooted in our founding as an institution. These values serve as a reminder for self-reflection, and a continuous call to grow for us as Brandeisans.

If you are interested in a role and have relevant experience but your work history does not align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we nevertheless encourage you to apply.