Please note: This is a Marshall University Foundation, Inc benefits eligible position and not a Marshall University state position.
The Director of Philanthropy is a key member of the Development Team and responsible for establishing, building and deepening meaningful relationships with Marshall University Foundation prospects and donors. Directors of Philanthropy cultivate, solicit and steward prospects and donors with the capacity to make major gifts at the $25,000 level and greater.
This is a position for an entrepreneurial and relationship-driven fundraiser to expand and deepen the philanthropic contributions of a portfolio of prospects and donors. In 2026, the Marshall University Foundation will launch a major fundraising campaign, and the Director of Philanthropy will work collaboratively with Foundation and University colleagues to fulfill the campaign goals.
Strategic Prospect and Donor Engagement
- Work closely with the CDO and Foundation and Development staff, university deans, faculty and key volunteers to pursue a coordinated and strategic program of cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of donors.
- Identify, qualify, and advance major gift prospects through proactive prospecting, referrals, research, events, and relationship-building.
- Make direct solicitations and close gifts; maintain a high level of donor and prospect engagement, including regular in-person and virtual meetings
- Manage a major gift donor portfolio of current, dormant, and prospective donors with the capacity to make gifts of $25,000 or greater.
- By building relationships through cultivation and stewardship raise a minimum of $500,000 annually.
Portfolio Management
- Leverage prospect research, data, and analytics to prioritize outreach, refine strategy, and strengthen the donor pipeline.
- Document contacts and strategies using the moves management system.
- Adhere to the Foundation’s policies and procedures for accepting, recording and acknowledging gifts and pledges.
Other Duties
- Pursue professional growth activities in collaboration with the Chief Development Officer.
- Participate as a full member of the development team attending prospect management meetings, professional development activities and other staff meetings, as appropriate.
- Monitor and process expenses on a timely basis and within approved budgets.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Salary Range Salary is commensurate upon education, experience and internal equity Salary Type Salary Time Type Full-Time Work Location OTHR - Other Off-Campus Location
Qualifications
Must be able to perform all essential job duties as outlined in the job description.
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of progressive and successful philanthropic development, relationship-based institutional sales, marketing, and/or related experience.
- Proven experience developing and managing relationships with high-level prospects.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills – written, verbal, and presentation.
- Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Ability to travel locally and nationally to fulfill Key Responsibilities.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends to fulfill Key Responsibilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Education
- Master’s degree in business administration, public sector management, marketing, or related discipline.
Experience
- Philanthropic development experience within a higher education, foundation, or non-profit institution.
- Proven success in securing major gifts and increasing donor support and engagement.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and donor databases.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number MU1222E Open Date 02/16/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions Summary
