Executive Director of Development

Columbia University, United States

Updated: over 2 years ago
Location: New York City, NEW YORK
Deadline: Morningside ;

Position Summary

Columbia Law School is in the midst of its ambitious $300M Campaign for Columbia Law, so far raising 80% of the overall goal.  The Executive Director of Development position has been integral to this success, a proven leader of the Development and Alumni Relations leadership team, and an important and trusted partner with colleagues across the Law School and Columbia University.

Reporting directly to the Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations, the Executive Director of Development is responsible for overseeing all fundraising and the Major Gifts, Annual Fund, and Reunion Fundraising teams. This position will also oversee the stewardship team, research team, and work closely with the development operations team. The incumbent is expected to have a proven record of major gift fundraising, the ability to work both collaboratively and independently, and to contribute to the overall fundraising and stewardship strategy of the development and alumni relations office. They will be expected to work closely with the Dean, senior staff, and the faculty in alumni engagement and fundraising.


Responsibilities

  • Direct and supervise all individual fundraising activities from Stewardship, Research, Annual Giving, Reunion and Major Gift programs. Manage six direct reports, overseeing responsibility for a staff of 14. 

  • Cultivates and manages defined portfolio of 75 leadership and potential leadership donors drawn primarily from Law School volunteer leadership. Create and implement strategy for and manage the Law's School 100+ member Board of Visitors, the Dean's Council and various other leadership groups. Work to develop new means of involvement and engagement amongst the leadership volunteers. 

  • Participate in strategic planning activities of the Development and Alumni Relations office and implement programs in line with strategic plans to garner success. Create annual plan for fundraising strategy to set and meet Campaign goals, annual dollar goals, and increase overall participation and alumni giving. Adhere to and promote fundraising metrics to motivate fundraising team. 

  • Works closely with the Associate Dean to strategize and devise cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plans for top Law School prospects both during and after the Law School’s Campaign. As needed, prepares materials for prospect solicitation process, including, but not limited to: prospect lists; briefings; proposals; and invitations. 

  • Provide leadership and support to the Associate Dean, the Dean and the faculty in all matters relating to fundraising. 


    • Minimum Qualifications

    Bachelor's degree required, graduate degree preferred. A minimum of 7-9 years of professional fundraising or comparable experience is required.

    The incumbent must be highly motivated, articulate, creative, and function well in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where teamwork and performance are valued. Superior communication and interpersonal skills required. This position requires evening and weekend work and travel as necessary.


    An understanding and appreciation of the role of development in an educational institution is highly desirable, as is an understanding of a professional school's mission and structure. The ability to work successfully with skilled professionals in the legal, academic and corporate communities is essential. Previous staff management experience is strongly preferred. Campaign experience is preferred. Must be able to work with diverse constituencies and support an inclusive work environment.


    Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

    Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.


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