Are you a relationship-driven fundraising leader who thrives on building high-performing teams and driving meaningful impact? Brandeis University is seeking a Director of Leadership Annual Giving to lead and grow a dynamic program focused on expanding philanthropic support and deepening donor engagement.
This is a highly visible leadership role within Institutional Advancement—ideal for someone who combines strategic vision, frontline fundraising expertise, and a passion for mentoring others.
Why This Role Matters
At Brandeis, leadership annual giving plays a critical role in fueling the University’s mission. You will lead efforts to grow a robust pipeline of donors giving between $1,000 and $25,000+, directly supporting key institutional priorities and enhancing the student experience.
The hiring range for this position is $92,200 - $122,900.
What You Will Do
Lead & Inspire a High-Performing Team (40%)
- Manage and mentor a team of five frontline fundraisers, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and results
- Coach staff on donor strategy, portfolio management, and solicitation techniques
- Track performance metrics and drive progress toward ambitious visit and revenue goals
- Partner with Advancement leadership to align strategies with major gift pipelines and University priorities
Shape Reunion Campaign Strategy & Volunteer Engagement (35%)
- Design and execute innovative Reunion Class Campaign strategies that drive participation, upgrades, and multi-year commitments
- Recruit, engage, and lead high-level volunteers as ambassadors and peer solicitors
- Represent Brandeis at key events, strengthening relationships with alumni and donors
Drive Fundraising Results (25%)
- Personally manage a portfolio of leadership donors, securing gifts of $1,000 to $25,000+
- Contribute significantly to annual revenue goals ($500K–$1M+ per officer)
- Ensure thoughtful stewardship and accurate tracking of all donor engagement
What You Bring
- 7+ years of fundraising experience, with a proven track record of closing gifts at the $1,000+ level
- Leadership experience (2–4+ years) managing and developing high-performing teams
- Expertise in volunteer management, donor engagement, and campaign strategy
- Strong analytical skills and experience using data to drive fundraising performance
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
Experience in higher education or a complex nonprofit environment is strongly preferred.
Work Environment & Expectations
- Based on the Brandeis University campus in Waltham, MA
- Regular travel and evening/weekend work for donor visits and events
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re energized by leading teams, building donor relationships, and advancing a mission-driven institution, we invite you to apply.
Pay Range DisclosureThe University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.
