Director of Development, Go Beyond Project Lead

Job Description

The director of development and Go Beyond project lead is responsible for 1) the management of relationships, with a portfolio of major gift prospects and current donors and 2) exploration of Go Beyond, a program to advance the independence at work and in daily life of adults historically served by the Augie Access program.  Major gift prospects are individuals who have been determined to have the ability to make gifts of $25,000 and greater.  The director will develop and implement strategies for securing financial support from this group and will manage a portfolio of prospects, to include alumni, parents and friends of the University.  The director will participate in making “comprehensive asks” of prospective donors, to include annual unrestricted support, as well as capital, endowment and planned gift support.   The Go Beyond project lead will focus on finalizing and implementing the Go Beyond residential community concept.  Major elements of this work include developing funding models and specific sources, developing the site and facilities, programming, partnerships, potential residents, and community stakeholders.  The Project lead will build and manage a comprehensive timeline, plan and schedule for the implementation of the Go Beyond model, including working closely with and reporting progress to the Go Beyond Board of Directors.   Every effort has been made to make the job description as complete as possible. Every effort has been made to make the job description as complete as possible. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related to, or is a logical assignment to the position.

Technical Skills

• Knowledge in computer applications used within the Development office for communicating with and tracking current and prospective donors, determining wealth and giving capacity, preparing reports.  
• Ability to manage time, schedule and prioritize work by determining the sequencing and timing of different jobs based on precedence, procedure, individual and team goals.
• Demonstrated ability to write creatively, communicate clearly, think critically, research effectively.

Interpersonal Skills

• Personal belief in mission, goals and objectives of private higher education and deep passion for the independent success of individuals with intellectual and developmental differences.
• Adherence to the highest ethical standards, empathetic disposition, perseverance, optimistic and positive attitude.
• Excellent interpersonal skills:  listening, communicating, building and maintaining positive relationships.
• Sensitivity to needs and feelings of others, while understanding the importance of team dynamics and the need for all members to speak freely in identifying, assessing and rating ideas, prospects, goals and team performance.
• Interest in all aspects of education and a dedication to promoting the University’s fund-raising priorities through developing excellent working relationships with faculty, senior academic leaders, trustees and other volunteers, and the Development team.
• Must be able to work under pressure of deadlines and dollar goals.
• Ability to build trust and rapport with diverse stakeholders.

Working Conditions

• Travel regionally and throughout the United States is required, as well as occasional weekend and evening work.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Moderate noise (i.e., business office with computers, phones, printers and light traffic).
• Interact with faculty, staff, students, and public on a consistent basis.
• Operate at a computer terminal for extended periods of time.
• Office atmosphere working conditions (i.e., indoor spaces with artificial lighting).
• Sitting in an office environment for extended periods of time.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular and punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards. May be required to sit for long hours.  Some lifting required – up to 50 pounds.
• It is important to note that while these physical requirements outline the general activities associated with the role, they are not exhaustive. The organization recognizes the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the workplace and is committed to adhering to ADA guidelines by considering individual capabilities and providing necessary responsible accommodations and accessibility to enable all employees to succeed in their roles.
• Some lifting required – up to 50 pounds.

Work Hazards

• Work with computers, phones, printers, printer cartridges, and fax machines and general maintenance of this equipment.
• Movement of objects from place to place when necessary.
• Moving between buildings and offices for meetings, interviews, events and other instances.
• Periodic exposure to office cleaning supplies; standard household chemical substance exposure.
• Prolonged computer use can lead to ergonomic issues such as eye strain, back pain, and repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). It's important for instructional designers to set up their workstations ergonomically and take regular breaks to reduce the risk of these issues. Scheduling an appointment with Augustana University’s Employee Health Educator can help determine the best layout for office equipment and determine if any special ergonomic equipment is needed.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum:  bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of training and experience
• Three or more years of successful fundraising experience, including direct solicitation and successful closing of five, six and seven-figure gifts from individuals. Consideration given to solid experience in related field with transferable skills
• Experience in assessing the needs and interests of donors/clients in order to develop relationships between them and the University/client
• Experience in creating, implementing and evaluating individual strategy plans for the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of donors/clients
• Experience in communicating the case for support, to grow understanding and inspire donors/clients to act in support of the solicitation.
• Proven experience in project management, nonprofit leadership, or program development.
• Familiarity with IDD services, regulations, and policy frameworks.
• Strong organizational and facilitation skills (meeting agendas, tracking follow-ups, creating accountability).

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in higher education institutions
• Experience launching new organizations, programs, or facilities.
• Background in disability services, housing models, or community-based nonprofit management.

Augustana University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Title IX Employer. Applicants must comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act and may be required to submit official transcripts upon employment. Finalist candidates must satisfactorily complete a pre-employment background check.