PAE seeks a Director of Development (DOD) to serve as the primary fundraising liaison between PAE and the University Library System (ULS). Reporting to the Executive Director of Development, Strategic Initiatives, this position works closely with the Hillman University Librarian and Director, ULS to advance fundraising success and strengthen alumni engagement in support of both immediate priorities and long-term strategic goals.
The DOD leads the development and execution of fundraising strategies that identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects and donors. In partnership with ULS leadership, the DOD develops compelling cases for support, aligns fundraising priorities with institutional goals, and enhances donor engagement across the library system.
A significant portion of the role involves managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and maintaining direct, personal engagement with donors to move prospects through the fundraising cycle and secure philanthropic support. The DOD collaborates with development colleagues, volunteers, and external stakeholders to coordinate fundraising initiatives, prepare proposals and donor communications, and advance development objectives.
The position also partners with ULS leadership to manage the ULS Board of Visitors, including providing updates and presentations related to fundraising activities and alumni engagement efforts. Working within the University's broader development and alumni relations framework, the DOD leverages institutional resources and cross-functional partnerships to maximize fundraising outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects, building a sustainable pipeline through strategic cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
- Conduct face-to-face donor visits and lead major gift solicitations through successful closure.
- Develop and implement fundraising strategies that support ULS priorities and long-term objectives.
- Assist in creating and executing communications plans that promote the mission, vision, values, funding priorities, and philanthropic opportunities of the ULS.
- Serve as the primary planned giving contact for the unit and respond to donor inquiries regarding gift planning opportunities.
- Develop, present, and steward major gift proposals while ensuring donor recognition aligns with University values and priorities.
- Manage the ULS Board of Visitors and support board engagement through regular fundraising and alumni relations updates.
- Advise the Director, ULS on fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and alumni relations initiatives.
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to advance fundraising goals and support development operations as needed.
Why Join Us?
Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in supporting the University's mission.
Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive, innovative, and dynamic team.
Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Ready to make a difference? Learn more about PAE and apply today.
Join us in shaping the future of education, research, and healthcare at the University of Pittsburgh!
Oversees development of a program, plans, and activities to create and execute a comprehensive development plan achieving new and recurring contributions to a school, foundation, program, and/or group. Manages a portfolio of major gift donors and strategically builds fundraising prospects. Assists leadership in facilitating a comprehensive communications plan and with development strategies.
- Represent PAE as a member of the University Library System (ULS) leadership team, act as the PAE fundraising lead for the ULS and Pitt broadly, and help manage the ULS Board of Visitors in collaboration with the Director, ULS.
- Create and implement fundraising strategies for qualification, cultivation, and solicitation of prospects for individual major gifts, by maintaining personal contact with prospects, involving the Director, ULS and ULS leadership as required.
- Research, write, edit, and oversee the preparation of persuasive annual giving and day of giving materials, solicitations, proposals, correspondence and other development-related communications as required.
- Create and implement donor relations and stewardship activities for the unit, and contribute to the strategic alumni engagement plan.
Light - Little physical effort required. Duties are primarily sedentary. May be required to move objects up to 25 pounds occasionally.
The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.
Job Details
- Assignment Category: Full-time regular
- Job Classification: Staff.Development Director
- Job Family: Philanthropy & Engagement
- Job Sub-Family: Major & Principal Gifts
- Campus: Pittsburgh
- Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree
- Minimum Years of Experience Required: 7
- Substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.
- Additional details about Required Licensure/Certification: Proven record of securing six- and seven figure major gifts, demonstrating initiative, leadership, and exceptional communication skills. Requires strong organizational and management abilities, with the capacity to engage and inspire alumni, donors, faculty, staff, senior leaders, and community partners. Higher education fundraising experience is preferred, along with the ability to effectively convey the university’s mission. Occasional travel and evening or weekend work are required.
- Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid: Combination of On-Campus and Remote work as determined by the department.
- Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications
- Relocation Offered: No
- Visa Sponsorship Provided: No
- Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check
- Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
- Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter
- Optional Documents: Not Applicable