Ohio Wesleyan has a growing sense of momentum as we embark on our next campaign led by the bold vision of new president, Matt vandenBerg, Ed.D. The Director of Major Gifts will work closely with University leadership to help launch the next chapter of philanthropy at Ohio Wesleyan.

The Director of Major Gifts provides leadership for a nationally focused major gifts team to engage and cultivate alumni across the country, fostering meaningful connections and advancing philanthropic priorities. The Director of Major Gifts will play a crucial role in setting and attaining ambitious goals for major and principal gifts, mentoring and motivating staff, evaluating progress toward goals, and growing philanthropic support to drive the University’s highest priorities and initiatives. Using advanced fundraising concepts, the Major Gifts team provides development strategy and support that significantly impacts overall Advancement goals through major gifts of $100,000 or more.

The Director of Major Gifts will also manage their own portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, develop strategic solicitation plans, and align donor passions with the University’s priorities.

An integral member of the Advancement leadership team, this position reports to the Assistant Vice President while working closely with the Vice President for University Advancement and the President of Ohio Wesleyan, including on joint meetings with principal gift prospects.

In close consultation with the Vice President for Advancement and President, the Director will provide leadership and strategic direction for campaign operations. The Director will also equip the Major Gifts team with the tools for success, and motivate and monitor progress toward campaign goals.

Why You'll Enjoy Working Here:

• Strong results and impact: OWU has a track record of philanthropic success led by the Advancement Office, and we look forward to building upon it in our next philanthropic chapter.
• We appreciate opportunities to deploy creativity, try new things and collaborate.
• Supportive culture that empowers autonomy and facilitates professional growth.
• Work life balance isn’t just a catchphrase but a critical component of whole-person development. We work hard and also take opportunities to reset. Ask us about our Halloween contest.
• Your efforts will directly contribute to the growth and success of Auburn University and its priorities.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum of five years of professional fundraising experience involving managing a major gift portfolio and securing major gifts of six figures or more, preferably in higher education, including knowledge of solicitation and cultivation techniques.
• Experience in major gifts prospect portfolio management as a frontline fundraiser, including knowledge of proven cultivation/solicitation techniques for gifts at all dollar levels with identified success in major gift fundraising. In-depth experience with the donor cultivation cycle and major gifts portfolio management, as well as annual and planned giving.
• Understanding of residential liberal arts institutions, with a strong appreciation for the mission, values, and unique opportunities for transformative education and community engagement.
• Expert written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment within University Advancement and across campus to achieve institutional goals.
• Awareness, knowledge, and skill in applying diversity, equity, and inclusion to Advancement work.

Preferred Requirements:

• 7+ years of years of professional fundraising experience including 7+ figure gifts, preferably with higher education institutions.
• Leadership, management, and supervisory experience leading a team of fundraising professionals. Demonstrated experience in leadership capacities, including the ability to hire, onboard, mentor, evaluate, and motivate the team.
• This position is preferably based in Central Ohio and, when not traveling, follows the hybrid schedule of the Advancement Office.

Completed application packets will include:

1. Cover Letter with salary requirements.
2. Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
3. References will be requested for top candidates.
4. Application review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

WHAT WE OFFER:

Ohio Wesleyan University offers a rewarding place to work! To discover why this should be your next work home, visit our website. Learn more about our benefits at Discover our Benefits. As an equal opportunity institution, OWU has a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. We do not discriminate on any basis including: race, religion, color, culture, national origin, sex and/or sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, economic barriers, or any other legally protected factor.