Director of Development

As the Director of Development at the Harris School of Public Policy, your primary responsibilities include managing a portfolio of 100+ gift prospects, engaging with current and prospective donors, overseeing annual giving, leading reunion programming, and enhancing donor relations. Your role involves strategizing on how to best solicit gifts at various levels, particularly focusing on securing ten $100,000+ contributions each fiscal year. Additionally, you will manage communication materials and direct the coordination of efforts like Giving Day and other donor engagement initiatives.

To qualify for the Director of Development role at the Harris School of Public Policy, candidates typically need at least a bachelor’s degree coupled with a minimum of seven years of experience in nonprofit management, development, or related fields. Strong organizational skills, team leadership experience, and familiarity with fundraising strategies in higher education are also preferred, along with an acute attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

The Director of Development plays a critical role in shaping and achieving fundraising goals at the Harris School of Public Policy by crafting strategic initiatives that align with the institution's priorities, as articulated by the Dean. This involves actively managing relationships with donors, developing donor engagement strategies, and using university resources to maximize fundraising potential. Additionally, the Director will analyze performance metrics, establish fundraising goals, and monitor progress to ensure that organizational objectives are met.

Successful Directors of Development at the Harris School need a blend of strategic thinking, project management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Other essential skills include excellent organizational capabilities, a strong customer service orientation, and a proven track record in soliciting and securing major gifts. Furthermore, proficiency with database management and fundraising software will aid in managing donor information effectively.

As the Director of Development at the Harris School of Public Policy, you will oversee various important programs and initiatives such as annual fund management, donor stewardship, reunion volunteer management, and special giving days like Giving Tuesday. Your role will also include developing marketing strategies for events and managing communication to both current and prospective donors to foster lasting relationships and enhance alumni engagement.

When answering this question, focus on specific instances where you successfully solicited major gifts. Highlight the strategy you employed, how you identified key prospects, and the methods you used to strengthen relationships that led to successful outcomes. Be prepared with metrics or results to demonstrate the impact of your efforts.

In your response, outline a multi-faceted approach that includes both digital and face-to-face engagements, such as networking events, panels, and community service opportunities, while also leveraging social media to maintain connections. Emphasize the importance of personal touches in outreach, such as personalized communications tailored to the interests of alumni.

Share specific examples of how you have led and developed teams in previous roles, focusing on team dynamics, goal-setting, and performance metrics. Highlight how you have motivated your team, nurtured their growth, and enhanced overall departmental effectiveness.

Discuss the various metrics and analytics tools you use to evaluate donor engagement levels, such as tracking participation in events, responsiveness to communications, and historical giving patterns. Explain your approach to using this data to inform future outreach strategies and initiatives.

Describe your approach to conflict resolution, focusing on the importance of listening, understanding the donor's perspective, and addressing concerns transparently. Give an example of a past experience when you successfully turned a challenging situation into a positive outcome.

Provide details on your planning process for fundraising events, including how you identify goals, create a budget, engage stakeholders, and promote the events. Highlight past successes and the lessons you've learned from events that did not meet expectations.

Discuss tools and platforms you’ve used to streamline fundraising processes, effectively manage donor information, and enhance communication. Mention how technology can facilitate online giving campaigns and data analysis to improve donor engagement strategies.

Share your thoughts on the significance of working collaboratively with other departments within the university, such as marketing, alumni relations, and academic units, to create a comprehensive fundraising strategy. Provide examples of how collaboration has enhanced fundraising efforts in your previous roles.

Outline the objectives, strategies, and outcomes of a specific fundraising campaign you've directed. Include insights into your planning process, team collaboration, and how you engaged with donors to achieve or exceed campaign goals.

Express your passion for driving social change and making a positive impact through your work in development. Explain how witnessing the outcomes of successful fundraising efforts and the direct benefits to the community or organization inspire your commitment to this field.