Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of
Senior Director of Development for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Mid- Atlantic Region. Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Advancement, the Senior Director of Development is responsible for serving as the university's primary advancement representative in major cities in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Maryland, DC, Virginia, and other states as needed and is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure major and principal gifts in support of institutional priorities.
This role will manage a portfolio of high-capacity prospects and donors and is responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, negotiating, and stewarding philanthropic commitments.
ResponsibilitiesJob responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Securing Funding: Secure $3-5M annually in philanthropic investments that advance the university's strategic priorities. Manage a portfolio of high-capacity major and principal gift prospects and donors capable of six- and seven-figure commitments. Develop and execute individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies while identifying and qualifying new prospects. Lead complex gift discussions and negotiations, collaborate with colleagues on multi-unit fundraising opportunities, and meet or exceed established goals and activity metrics.
Regional Leadership and Administration: Serve as the university's lead advancement representative in the Mid-Atlantic region, creating strategic engagement opportunities with alumni, donors, volunteers, and university partners. Collaborate with campus leadership and advancement colleagues to align regional efforts with institutional priorities. Maintain accurate prospect activity and donor records to keep portfolio management and reporting reliable. Prepare reports and strategy recommendations that demonstrate leadership through professionalism, collaboration, and adherence to fundraising best practices.
QualificationsRequired Education and ExperienceThe candidate who fills the Senior Director of Development position is required to have:
- 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in major gifts fundraising, advancement, nonprofit development, sales, or a related field, with demonstrated success securing significant philanthropic commitments and managing complex donor relationships.
- Experience working within a comprehensive campaign environment, including developing and executing strategies that advance campaign priorities and fundraising goals.
A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required due to travel responsibilities of the position. UTFI reserves the right to consider all appropriate circumstances. In general, any significant driving offense less than 12 months old will eliminate the application from consideration for the position.
Note - Candidates holding a graduate degree must have at least 6 years of experience.
Preferred Education and ExperienceIn addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
- Experience working with major gift prospects, volunteers, senior-level constituents, and institutional leadership is strongly preferred
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before October 22nd via our DASH application system. Applications must include a completed candidate profile, cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without explicit permission of the candidate.
This position offers flexibility to be based in Knoxville, TN, or in an approved Mid-Atlantic market, depending on the location of the selected candidate. The successful candidate's location should support effective management of the assigned prospect portfolio and regular travel throughout the region, with periodic travel to the Knoxville campus.
When determining minimum qualifications, only information entered into the candidate profile can be considered. Please ensure your candidate profile is completed in its entirety as it relates to qualifying education/work experience.
Target Start Date: December 1, 2026
Benefits: The Foundation's greatest asset is our team. Foundation employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:
- Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days
- Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members
- Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
- Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods
