Director of Advancement

$25,000 - $100,000/Yr

University of Florida - Saint Johns, FL

Full-time - Senior

Saint Johns, FL

Educational Services

About the position

The Director of Advancement is responsible for leading and executing the fundraising program for the Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience at the University of Florida. This role focuses on acquiring major gifts and developing engagement opportunities to meet the financial needs of the laboratory in alignment with the strategic initiatives of UF Advancement. The incumbent will build relationships with alumni, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the fundraising efforts.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary fundraiser for the Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, leading the major gift program.
• Design solicitation strategies tailored to individual prospects and corporate/foundation needs.
• Independently perform prospect identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gift prospects.
• Build and manage a portfolio of fundraising prospects at the major gift levels, ensuring consistent fundraising success.
• Develop a portfolio that raises $1.5 - $2 million per year within 24-36 months, with a focus on high-value gifts.
• Collaborate with the Director, faculty, and AVP on campaigns, donor recognition, and new prospect identification.
• Articulate the contributions of the Whitney Lab to various stakeholders and serve as a liaison to community leaders.
• Develop and implement a donor communications plan in partnership with the Whitney Communications Office.
• Create a structured process for volunteer recruitment and management to enhance fundraising effectiveness.
• Oversee public support programs and events, coordinating with public relations staff.
• Participate in recruiting diverse leadership for boards and committees to ensure community representation.
• Manage engagement events and coordinate activities for the unit.
• Provide leadership and support for strategic planning efforts related to the Whitney Lab.

Requirements

• Master's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and three years of relevant experience in Development or a related field; or a bachelor's degree with five years of experience.
• One year of supervisory experience.
• Three to five years of fundraising experience with documented success in cultivating and soliciting gifts.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and standards.
• Experience in researching and writing foundation grant proposals.
• Ability to work strategically and develop constituency programs.
• Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and donor database management.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in capital campaigns and other fundraising campaigns.
• Familiarity with modern biological research programs.
• Ability to motivate volunteers and work collaboratively as a team player.
• Competency in problem-solving and strategic planning.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience.