Director of Development, School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - Leading Fundraising and Philanthropic Growth

Join Brandeis University's Division of Institutional Advancement as a Director of Development, School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences

Brandeis University, a renowned private research university, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Director of Development to lead advancement efforts for the School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. As a key member of the Division of Institutional Advancement, you will play a critical role in securing philanthropic support to drive academic excellence, research, and scholarship across the institution.

About Brandeis University

Brandeis University is a distinguished top-tier private research university recognized for its academic excellence and leading-edge research. With a strong commitment to social justice, the university offers a culture of learning and mentorship essential to a 21st-century liberal arts education. Close relationships with professors and research opportunities enable students at all levels to collaborate with faculty members and peers across the institution.

Established in 1948 by members of the American Jewish community, Brandeis University is dedicated to making the world a better place. The university's visionary founders shared a commitment to social justice, which continues to guide its endeavors today. From helping to solve a national public health crisis through its Opioid Policy Research Collaborative to groundbreaking biological discoveries, Brandeis University is a hub for innovative research and scholarship.

Position Summary

As Director of Development, School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, you will serve as a strategic partner to the Deans of the School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, working closely with faculty, alumni, and senior leadership to create and offer significant philanthropic opportunities. Your primary goal will be to maximize the effectiveness of the Deans' philanthropic efforts, securing six- and seven-figure gifts to support the university's academic priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to promote a culture of philanthropy across the School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.
• Collaborate with the Deans, senior leadership, and faculty to identify high-impact funding priorities and develop proposals, reports, and briefings.
• Manage a portfolio of key prospects, cultivating and soliciting gifts to support the university's academic priorities.
• Partner with development colleagues to leverage broad-based direct marketing and alumni engagement strategies.
• Provide decanal support, managing the Deans' time related to development, stewardship, and prospect work.
• Foster strong relationships with Arts & Sciences Division Heads, senior leadership, and faculty.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

• Minimum 8 years of relevant work experience in higher education advancement, preferably in a development role.
• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Track record of cultivating and closing six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Strong relational, collaborative, and teamwork skills for both internal and external relations.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and operationalize related fundraising and engagement strategies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a higher education setting.
• Familiarity with MS Office Suite and Salesforce.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Skills and Competencies

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and conferencing software.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

Brandeis University is committed to the growth and development of its staff. As a member of the Division of Institutional Advancement, you will have access to:

• Professional development opportunities, including training and workshops.
• Networking opportunities with colleagues across the university.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Brandeis University is a vibrant and distinctive community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome students, faculty, and staff of every nationality, religion, and orientation. Our campus culture is guided by a commitment to social justice and a desire to make the world a better place.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

Brandeis University offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Join Brandeis University?

Brandeis University offers a unique opportunity to join a community that is passionate about making a difference. As a Director of Development, School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of the university, working with a talented team of advancement professionals, and engaging with faculty, alumni, and senior leadership.

If you are a motivated and experienced development professional looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

How to Apply

To apply, please visit our career website and submit your cover letter and resume via the Brandeis University Human Resources online portal.

We welcome your nominations, inquiries, and expressions of interest in this position, which may be directed informally via email or telephone to:

Ania Morris
Assistant Director, Advancement Talent Management & Administration
781-736-4004 | [email protected]

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnicity, caste, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, including transgender identity, religion, disability, age, genetics, active military or veteran status, and any other characteristics protected under applicable federal or Massachusetts law.