Director of Philanthropic Relations and Stewardship

Director of Philanthropic Relations and Stewardship

Job no: 563480
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: Fresno
Categories: MPP, At-Will, Fundraising & Alumni Relations, Full Time

Director of Philanthropic Relations and Stewardship
(Administrator II)

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated salary hiring range is $85,000 - $92,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience. This is a CSU Management Personnel Plan (MPP) position.

The CSU system provides a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), sick and vacation time, and 15 paid holidays a year. Eligible employees are also able to participate in the fee waiver education program. A summary of benefit information can be found here.

Job Summary

Under the guidance of the Assistant Vice President for Advancement Operations and Annual Giving (AVP), the Director of Philanthropic Relations and Stewardship (Director) is responsible for the implementation and maintenance of Fresno State's philanthropic partner relation and stewardship efforts. This position plays a critical role in creating a culture of philanthropy at Fresno State by maintaining and enhancing the University's relationships with philanthropic partners. The position requires someone who is highly collaborative and constituent driven to build and sustain a University-wide philanthropic partner centric relations and stewardship program.

The Director reports directly to the Assistant Vice President for Advancement Operations and Annual Giving (AVP) and serves as the primary liaison to the Office of the President for assigned presidential events and activities. The Director collaborates with the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) to ensure alignment with presidential priorities while retaining responsibility for the operational planning, coordination, and execution of assigned activities.

The Director possesses strong relationship-building and communication skills, demonstrates critical thinking and sound judgment, and is a results-driven leader and effective writer. The position oversees scholarship and endowment reporting and collaborates with Foundation leadership on fund analysis, administration, and accountability. The Director also plays a key role in strengthening relationships with alumni and philanthropic partners through meaningful stewardship, impact reporting, event planning and execution, and the tracking and evaluation of philanthropic partner engagement activities in the alumni/philanthropic partner database.

Key Qualifications

• Knowledge and ability to create, execute and oversee a comprehensive campus-wide philanthropic partner acknowledgement and recognition plan.
• Knowledge and ability to develop stewardship communications, impact reports, and recognition strategies for major and principal gifts.
• Ability to work constructively and cooperatively with a diverse group of external and internal constituents.
• Creative, energetic and ambitious to be able to lead people, programs and manage projects.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to quickly understand and remember details about philanthropic partners and projects to which they are assigned.
• Exceptional written and effective oral and interpersonal communication and research skills; ability to synthesize information and compose clear and effective materials.
• Ability to listen and respond with diplomacy and tact.
• Demonstrated experience managing and coordinating multiple complex projects with competing deadlines.
• Demonstrated sound judgment in situations requiring independent decision making and in handling confidential and sensitive material.
• Strong customer service focus; excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of principles of institutional planning and budget processes.
• Ability to analyze and interpret financial data and make strategic business decisions.
• Ability and willingness to travel.
• Ability and willingness to work early mornings, nights and weekends as needed.
• Competency and experience with the use of Windows, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Email and internet browsers.

To view the full list of qualifications and job responsibilities, please click the Position Description button above.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year regionally accredited institution.
• A minimum of four years progressively responsible and successful leadership management experience in philanthropic partner relations and customer service, event management or closely related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office, specifically Word and Excel, database software and spreadsheet programs, email and Internet applications.
• Working knowledge of CSU policies and procedures.
• Proficiency with databases, preferably Ellucian Advance.
• Experience working in higher education.

Department Summary

University Advancement's mission is to inspire and increase philanthropy for Fresno State by putting the philanthropic partner at the center of what University Advancement does, thereby focusing on the philanthropic partner being the hero of their own story. The division works with alumni, friends, and the greater Fresno community to elevate Fresno State through their engagement with the University. Providing engagement opportunities is a primary role of the division, which advances Fresno State and elevates Fresno State students and the Valley. University Advancement focuses on engaging University constituents with the strong Fresno State brand and deepening the bond with alumni, friends, and the communities with the University.

Deadline & Application Instructions

Applications received by November 29, 2026 will be given full consideration by the search committee.

• Applications received after that date will be forwarded at the request of the Hiring Manager and/or search committee.

Please click "Apply Now" to complete the employment application for California State University, Fresno. Interested applicants must complete the application and attach the following: 1) their most recent resumé/vitae, 2) a cover letter that addresses their specific qualifications and interest, and 3) contact information for three professional references.

Fresno State

California State University, Fresno is one of 22 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe. Fresno State is a tobacco-free, smoke-free and vapor-free campus.

Metropolitan Fresno, with a multi-ethnic population of over 527,000, is located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. The campus is within driving distance of Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Monterey Peninsula, beaches, sailing, lakes, and numerous ski resorts. Fresno boasts one of the most reasonable housing markets in California and offers a wide array of locally grown fruits and produce.

Advertised: Oct 26 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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