Assistant Director of Development, School of Divinity

Job Description Summary

In University Advancement, we believe in equity, not just equality. We understand that in order to develop a fully engaged constituency; individuals must receive equitable treatment instead of equal treatment. Establishing equality means treating everyone the same. Equity necessitates transforming our community to meet the needs, interests and cultural norms of our University Advancement staff.

The Assistant Director of Development, Divinity, in collaboration with the Assistant Dean for Development, identifies, cultivates, and solicits gifts to the School of Divinity Wake Forest Fund (with special emphasis on Giving Society gifts) and other projects as assigned. Manages a portfolio of at least 120 prospects, working to strengthen relationships that result in increased philanthropic support for the School of Divinity from Divinity alumni, churches, and other prospects. Other key areas of responsibility include: alumni engagement and identifying and securing new members for the School’s volunteer boards.

Job Description

This Job Is For You If You Are Able To….

• Assist the Assistant Dean of Development in the development and implementation of comprehensive fundraising goals, objectives, and plans for the School of Divinity. Help strengthen board participation and identify major gift prospects.
• Identify, solicit, and steward donors to the Wake Forest Fund – School of Divinity (with particular emphasis on five year commitments of $1,000+) as well as major, restricted gifts of $50,000 - $100,000.
• Maintain strong focus on in-person meetings with alumni and friends of the School of Divinity to enhance current relationships and build new relationships for the School that result in increased fundraising.
• Build the Wake Forest Fund – School of Divinity through personal solicitations, direct mail, digital, and telethon efforts.
• Lead project-based development efforts for School of Divinity among alumni, churches, and denominational organizations.
• Develop and coordinate projects, events, and communications that will deepen the relationship between Wake Forest University (WFU) and its Divinity alumni.
• Recruit and manage the Divinity Executive Alumni Council (alumni volunteer leadership).
• Assist in coordinating the School of Divinity Board of Visitors.
• Coordinate alumni meetings and other special events and work collaboratively with Wake Forest University, School of Divinity (WFUSD) offices and leaders on events and continuing education opportunities for alumni, donors, and prospective donors.
• Contribute to a transparent and equitable organizational culture where ethical and equity policies and practices are understood and lived out by all staff.
• Have a passion for workplace diversity and inclusion.
• Believe in high standards for your work and are proud to contribute to a mission-driven organization.
• Have excitement about the prospect of joining a team that is making a difference in people’s lives every day. 
• Attend receptions and events to identify and cultivate donors to the School.

• Assist with other University Advancement events and staffing, when needed.
• Proficiency in computer use and related software, including Word, Excel, email/internet applications and social media.
• Ability to learn and become proficient with industry-specific software.
• Ability to recruit, motivate, and manage volunteers.

What Skills Do You Need?

• Bachelor’s degree plus three to five years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and techniques.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.
• Commitment to the mission and values of University Advancement and a commitment to equity, particularly racial equity, with a willingness to proactively learn about it and integrate it into all aspects of the work.
• Proven history of gaining philanthropic support and financial commitments from individuals and foundations.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct multiple programs and activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Strong interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to develop, plan, and implement short- and long-range goals.
• An outgoing, personable demeanor with the ability to persuade and influence others.
• Ability to think creatively about initiatives and programs that will increase fundraising for the School of Divinity.
• Ability to represent Wake Forest and interface with prospects and donors at the highest level.
• Ability to represent the School of Divinity in congregational and other faith-based settings.
• Familiarity with Christian denominations and other faith traditions.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends, as required.
• Ability to travel.
• Ability to meet requirements of the University’s automobile insurance.

Desired Skills and Abilities: As the incoming Assistant Director of Development, School of Divinity you will possess many, though perhaps not all, of the following characteristics and qualifications:

• Previous experience in a non-profit or academic environment with evidence of specific skills, especially writing, event planning/coordination, organizational, volunteer management and customer service orientation relevant to the position.
• Possesses an understanding of the donor cycle.
• Some experience in sales and marketing, or public relations preferred.
• Experience in PowerPoint and familiarity with WebEx, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Accountabilities:

• Responsible for own work; meets goals for monthly visits, solicitations and commitments.
• Responsible for monitoring travel and entertainment budget.
• May supervise student workers.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all requirements listed in the job description. In University Advancement at Wake Forest University, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. If this role appeals to you, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification on the job description, we encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.