How to Apply

A cover letter and resume are required for consideration for this position. The cover letter should be included in the same document as your resume and should specifically address your interest in this position and highlight related skills and experience.

Job Summary

The Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy is looking for an Associate Director, Development. Your primary responsibility will be to identify, cultivate and solicit prospects capable of making gifts of $100,000 or more in support of the Ford School. As the Associate Director, Development, you will work closely with the Chief Development Officer and the Dean to develop fundraising strategies and collaborate with internal and external constituents to advance the Ford School's fundraising priorities. You will report to the Chief Development Officer (CDO).

Responsibilities*

Portfolio work

• Manage and implement a comprehensive multi-year major gift plan, including identifying, assessing, analyzing, and designing appropriate strategies for approaching prospects and donors through a portfolio of individual major gift prospects and donors, with an emphasis on gifts of $100,000 and more
• Assist the Chief Development Officer in providing support to the dean related to fundraising activities, including strategically and proactively planning for the dean's fundraising travel; providing briefing materials for meetings and visits; and drafting correspondence
• In collaboration with our Leadership Annual Giving Officer, serve as the department co-lead on Planned Giving, including creating and implementing a planned giving calendar of strategic initiatives to further the Ford School's planned giving pipeline
• Initiate regular reports, analyze data, and maintain accurate and current records including contact reports and individual development and stewardship plans in the University's donor database

Board and personnel management

• Role may include supervisory responsibilities for the Leadership Annual Giving Officer, dependent on candidate's experience
• Actively participate in Ford School events, especially those involving Ford School donors and our bi-annual meetings with the Dean's advisory board, The Ford School Committee, and the Ford School Alumni Board. Participation includes attendance, event preparation as needed, and hosting of donors and guests

Ford School and University representation

• Serve as an active member of the University Development community, working closely and collaboratively with the Office of University Development's regional gift officers and planned giving team, and major gift officers across campus
• Serve on school-wide staff committees to foster staff and community development
• Represent the school and the University at designated functions, as required

NOTE: This position requires frequent domestic travel, and may include occasional international travel as needed.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 5+ years of of major gift fundraising experience or relevant experience in sales and marketing, or other related fields
• Proven ability to exercise initiative, independent judgment, diplomacy, confidentiality and a high level of discretion when dealing with highly sensitive information
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including the ability and commitment to working with a diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and visitors of the Ford School and the University of Michigan
• Excellent written and verbal interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated editing, proof-reading, writing and minute taking experience

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Paid parental leave

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

Work Schedule

The Ford School is committed to providing a positive and inclusive work environment. This includes providing employees with flexible work opportunities. This position will generally be expected to work in the office 3 days per week during the academic year, with opportunities for additional flexibility during the summer months.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

Job Detail

Job Opening ID

281756

Working Title

Associate Director, Development

Job Title

Major Gifts Officer Senior

Work Location

Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI

Modes of Work

Hybrid

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Regular/Temporary

Regular

FLSA Status

Exempt

Organizational Group

School Pub Policy

Department

G. Ford Sc Pub Pol

Posting Begin/End Date

8/17/2026 - 8/31/2026

Salary

$95,000.00 - $120,000.00

Career Interest

Development/Institutional Advancement