Director of Development, Opening Nights

Job ID: 54802

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Location: Tallahassee, FL

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Department

FSU Foundation 

Equal Employment Opportunity

An Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer.

FSU's Equal Opportunity Statement can be accessed at: https://hr.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu2186/files/PDF/Publications/diversity/EEO_Statement.pdf.

Responsibilities

The Director of Development, Opening Nights, will strategically design and execute a personal solicitation program to generate philanthropic support by identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding prospects for annual memberships, sponsorships, and major gifts to the University’s performing arts program. This individual will secure annually private support at the major gift level and will also be responsible for identifying new potential major gift prospects. This individual will be expected to uphold and exemplify the mission of FSU and work collaboratively within FSU’s University Advancement model.

Develops and Executes Fundraising Initiatives

Works with the Associate Vice President for Colleges, Schools and Units, and other members of the organization’s team to develop and execute strategic fundraising initiatives at the major gift level on behalf of Opening Nights, the University and the Foundation. Develops and coordinates the annual fundraising plan for Opening Nights. Establishes new relationships resulting in philanthropic gifts at the major gift level, maintains existing relationships, which may generate new philanthropic gifts, and provides prospect/donor-related assessments of the performance of Opening Nights and the FSU Foundation. Identifies, qualifies and sustains a donor prospect portfolio with individuals who have a targeted giving capacity of $50,000 or more. Secures gifts and pledges from alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of FSU as well as local businesses. Coordinates with FSU University Advancement colleagues to identify prospects for planned giving, corporate and foundation giving, major, and principal giving. Exhibits and promotes a comprehensive understanding of Opening Nights’ philanthropic priorities, effectively matching the specific interests of prospects to those needs.

Sponsorship and Membership Cultivation, Management and Stewardship Plans for and initiates direct activities with prospects that are designed to enhance the affiliation between the prospect and the University. Prepares proposals and gift agreements as required for proper gift documentation. Prepares correspondence with prospects and documents communications, solicitation activity and gift information in compliance with Foundation reporting guidelines. Creates, inspires and maintains donor loyalty, interest and enthusiasm through stewardship communication and activities designed to express recognition, appreciation and the impact of their gift(s).  Implementation of such stewardship plan may include but should not be limited to letters, communication of organization or university initiatives, invitations to appropriate activities, meetings, events, performances, student engagement or the facilitation of campus visits. Protects confidential information. Creates and sends out membership and sponsorship stewardship packages and ensures that donors receive the benefits promised. Maintains the Sponsorship and Membership database. Duties also include keeping the Opening Nights ticket office informed of all sponsors and members so that donors can purchase event tickets. Perform other duties as assigned.

Volunteer Council/Board Mgt/Internal Communications

Responsible for the strategic management of the Opening Nights Advancement Council. Works with the Council Chair to set agendas. Working with the Council, the Opening Nights Development Director keeps bylaws updated and relevant to reflect the mission of the organization, FSU within a University Advancement model. This individual will also work with council members and the Opening Nights Director to identify potential Advancement Council members. Works with Advancement Council members to develop and maintain membership and sponsorship opportunities and benefits that are relevant and help encourage philanthropic giving.

Effectively communicates the mission and culture of Opening Nights and represents both to external stakeholders. Works with the Opening Nights Director to establish a membership and communication plan directed towards fundraising. Coordinates with the department’s Marketing and Communication Manager on overall fundraising goals as well as to ensure Opening Nights various communications platforms have current membership and sponsor information and are utilized to assist with development.  Assists in the facilitation of meetings, communications, informational exchanges and project/philanthropic coordination with Opening Nights’ staff.   

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and six years of experience; or a high school diploma/equivalent and experience equal to ten years. (Note: post-high school education can substitute for experience at the equivalent rate.)

Proficiency in the Microsoft Office products suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word), or equivalent software.

A self-starter, comfortable working independently.

Ability to maintain consistent and positive communication with the Dean and Foundation.

Excellent communication skills to include effective and persuasive writing, public speaking and interpersonal skills.

Ability to facilitate strong communications with colleagues, donors, prospective donors and alumni, including letters, surveys and telephone solicitation programs.

Must be a creative thinker and a recognition of the impact of meaningful stewardship.

Ability to prioritize, organize and perform multiple work assignments simultaneously and accurately in a detail-oriented environment.

Ability and willingness to travel and work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

A valid Florida or Georgia Driver's License, or the ability to obtain.

*Applicants must upload a cover letter & resume with their online application.*

Preferred

Advanced degree preferred.

Professional demeanor with a teamwork approach, and a can-do, assertive philosophy.

Minimum of four years of professional experience in major gift development in a university setting. Experience in a related field with basic knowledge of personal solicitation methods may also be considered.

University Information

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research, encourages creativity, and embraces diversity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news! Learn more about our university and campuses.

Pay Plan

This is an A&P (Administrative and Professional) position.

FSU Total Rewards

FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.

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Criminal Background Check

This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check. The background check will be conducted as authorized and in accordance with University Policy 4-OP-C-7-B11.

How To Apply

If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

Open Until Filled

This position is being advertised as open until filled.

The hiring committee will review applications as received.