The Director of Regional Development works in a regional advancement operation raising philanthropic support for university priorities by establishing, developing, and maintaining relationships with supporters in the region. This position will be regionally based within Texas and requires regular (quarterly) travel to campus in Milwaukee, WI. This role will directly manage a portfolio of major gift prospects who have an interest in supporting the University.
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Portfolio Management
- Assist in executing an annual fundraising business plan, developed by the leader.
- Meets regularly with their leader to assess projects, review strategies and track progress toward meeting fundraising performance benchmarks.
- Manages a portfolio of approximately 40 prospects with capacity to make gifts of $125,000 and more with an annual production goal in excess of $1,000,000; regularly identifies and contacts additional prospects through research and referrals.
- Meets individually with prospects and volunteers designed to move prospects toward making a philanthropic commitment to the university.
- Makes personal gift solicitations. Management of the process includes maintaining a comprehensive understanding of university priorities, preparation of the solicitation materials, conducting strategy meetings, and preparing briefing materials for President/Vice President of Advancement/Dean/others involved in solicitation.
- Directs and refers a solicitation to identified prospects in portfolio for a planned gift, including, but not limited to bequests and annuities. Partner with the Planned Giving fundraising team to manage, as needed.
- Maintains appropriate contact with prospects and records all contact in University Advancement prospect management system.
Track and timely submit P-card activity.
2. Build Community
- Creates regional annual plan and strategy for programming, leadership engagement and fundraising outcomes in the region.
- Provides oversight of fundraising activity in region and acts as a liaison to regionally based volunteer committees.
- Attends relevant university events and meetings, some during the evenings and weekends, representing the university to external constituents.
- Participates in all UA, Regional Advancement, or other required team or staff meetings.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Bachelor’s degree
A minimum of 4 years of development-related experience in higher education, including a successful track record of personal portfolio management and securing gifts at the $125K or above level is required; relevant sales experience may also be considered.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
The ability to work with colleagues in a team environment.
The ability to travel is also required.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Department University Advancement Posting Date 07/14/2026 Closing Date Special Instructions to Applicants EOE Statement
It is the policy of Marquette University to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classification.
Required Documents
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Optional Documents 