Classification Title:

ASO DIR, Development

Job Description:

The Associate Director of Development will play a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the fundraising efforts for the J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Engineering Education. As a subject matter expert in these areas, this position provides the unique opportunity to guide the department chair’s engagement in development while creating and expanding a comprehensive fundraising program.

This strategic role focuses on cultivating major gifts of $50,000 and above, with annual fundraising goals of $500,000–$750,000. The Associate Director will build and manage a portfolio of prospects, fostering meaningful donor relationships and securing transformational gifts that drive innovation and excellence. Through personal engagement and strategic outreach, this position will develop customized fundraising strategies, lead donor-centric events, and champion a culture of philanthropy.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Advancement, the Associate Director serves as a key partner to the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and UF Advancement, aligning departmental initiatives with central fundraising strategies and university-wide engagement goals. This is an exciting opportunity for a driven fundraising professional to build and grow a high-impact development program while shaping the future of engineering education and research at UF.

Responsible for the development and implementation of the development and alumni programs and will independently perform identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of mid-level gift prospects. Will focus on individual prospects and work with leadership corporate and foundation prospects where gift/grant is assessed at $50,000 and above. Build a portfolio of fundraising prospects and strategically manage relationships through face-to-face visits. Develop and present mid-level gift proposals and acknowledge and recognize gifts in ways that are meaningful to donors, and appropriate to the mission, vision, and values of the HWCOE units and UF Advancement/UFF. Attend HWCOE and UF Advancement functions to identify new individuals and move prospects through the donor continuum in coordination with the Interim Executive Director of Development (HWCOE).

Strategic Initiatives

Responsible for implementation of a broad range of development and alumni affairs activities including alumni events and special fundraising projects that target individuals, corporations, and foundations for the J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Engineering Education. Assist the department heads in developing, managing, and executing plans, communications, and meetings for the BME and EED Advisory Boards (e.g., External Advisory and Alumni Advisory boards). Create a structured process for the identification, recruitment, evaluation, recognition, and replacement of volunteers to strengthen fundraising effectiveness. Participate in recruiting experienced and diverse leadership on boards and/or committees in order to ensure that these groups are representative of, and responsive to, the communities served. Responsible for coordinating alumni and donor stewardship programs for the departments. Assist with planning and implementing short- and long-term development and alumni programs and strategies. Assist with designing solicitation strategies on a case-by-case basis, being cognizant of development and HWCOE office needs and procedures. Assist in developing and implementing a comprehensive communications plan to inform constituents and identified markets about the mission, vision, and values of the unit, its funding priorities, and gift opportunities.

Administrative

Review documentation of donations for accuracy and ensure that donors receive proper gift credit, including gift acknowledgements and related stewardship. Work with HWCOE development team to ensure all donors are properly recognized for their contributions. Draft correspondence to donors, prospects, alumni, and corporations for the department head. Ensure best practices in office systems, practices, files, and record keeping; ensure effective use of strategic tools and resources, such as contact reports, prospect management, research, and analysis, and the donor database.

Perform related duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions related to this position.

Expected Salary:

The salary range for this position is $65,000–$73,000, commensurate on experience.

Exceptional Benefits We Offer:

Affordable State Health Plans: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Comprehensive Coverage: Life and Disability Insurance Secure Retirement Options: Generous plans to safeguard your future Comprehensive Paid Time Off: Including 11 paid holidays, as well as family, sick, and vacation leave Professional and Personal Growth: Opportunities through UF Training & Organization Development, leadership development, LinkedIn learning, and more Tuition Assistance: Benefit from the UF Employee Education Program PSLF Eligibility: We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer

The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package. Click here to learn more.

Minimum Requirements:

Master's degree in an appropriate area and one year of relevant experience; or a bachelor's degree in an appropriate area and three years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will possess:

Three to five years of mid-level and/or major gift fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting gifts of $50,000 and above from individual and corporate prospects with campaign experience. Prior experience in a college or university setting, enthusiasm for fundraising in a comprehensive research university, and the desire to work collegially within a goal-oriented fundraising organization. Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards. Expertise in developing solicitation strategies. The ability to work strategically, develop and implement constituency programs and activities, along with a talent for motivating volunteers. Ability to work collaboratively and a team player. Competency in problem solving. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential. A commitment to and support for workplace inclusion in all its forms; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential. Proficient in the following areas: Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms. Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred. The ability and willingness to travel. A valid driver’s license and good driving record are essential.

 *Business expenses are reimbursed through a standard accounting system. The ability to pay expenses using your own personal credit card or funds and have them reimbursed is essential.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must upload a cover letter, resume and three references with application.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

This requisition has been reposted.  Existing applicants are still under consideration and need not apply.

Health Assessment Required: No