Business Title
Executive Director, Principal Prospects Strategy
Applications Accepted From
University Wide, Public: Open to the Public
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, please complete and submit the online application and be prepared to attach 3 separate documents: current resume, cover Letter, and a list of 3 professional references with current contact information, including email addresses. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, please apply by 11:59 p.m. EST on the close date.
This position is eligible for the following benefits:
medical, vision, dental, basic and supplemental life, winter break closure, paid holidays, educational benefits for you and eligible dependents, sick leave, vacation, and retirement.
Department Summary
The Executive Director, Principal Prospects Strategy reporting to the AVP of Development will serve as chief strategist and pipeline manager for principal giving and will develop and implement a sophisticated and programmatic approach to principal giving at OHIO.
The Executive Director, Principal Prospects Strategy is responsible for working with some of the university’s highest rated prospects and donors. This position will be responsible for securing and stewarding restricted and unrestricted gifts from individuals and families believed capable of making $1 million and above gifts in support of Ohio University’s institutional priorities and to work with university leadership to further develop prospect relationships with Ohio University.
This individual will create connections and support the development of new and established relationships with top-tier prospects/donors. The incumbent will synthesize research and information to present persuasive rationale for cultivation/solicitation strategies; and oversee proposal preparation, projects, and programs for securing principal gifts throughout the Advancement enterprise.
This position will be responsible for:
- Managing a portfolio of high potential individual prospects through identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship cycles.
- Forging relationships with a diverse population that will lead to seven-figure gift solicitations and secured gifts.
- Creating and implementing thoughtful, multi-step plans that deepen relationships with principal level prospects and donors for the next comprehensive campaign.
- Traveling to visit prospects is necessary, and often in tandem with the University President, Vice President for Advancement, other Advancement/University Leadership as needed.
- Acting as fundraising advisor to Ohio University stakeholders (University leadership, faculty and staff, Advancement staff, board members, and key volunteers) as defined by the supervisor to create alignment and consensus among key those stakeholders regarding solicitation strategies
Position Profile
Identifies sources of funding. Directs the management of individual giving programs, trusts, estates, gift planning, corporate and foundation relations, prospect research and donor relations and stewardship. Cultivates relationships with alumni, donors, foundations, and corporations to support the University’s mission. Ensures the University has the resources necessary for growth and engages the community to advance its long-term goals.
Level Summary
Regularly serves as a technical leader, expert, or program manager for complex functions or initiatives that require deep subject-matter knowledge. Significantly impacts the department by directly contributing to its performance and success.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Provides leadership to projects or initiatives. May have a limited number of direct reports.
Fiscal Responsibilities
May be responsible for budget for projects or initiatives.
Problem Solving
Leads problem-solving efforts across various challenges.
Independence of Action
Operates with high autonomy and is trusted to make decisions.
Communication and Collaboration
Frequently collaborates cross-functionally and represents the team in meetings with internal and external stakeholders. Influences decision-making.
Physical Requirements
This role is primarily desk-based and involves extensive use of desktop computers. Occasionally, the job may require travel to attend meetings and programs.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 8 or more years of related professional experience, or equivalent education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Minimum of 8 years of experience in higher education advancement, development, or fundraising.
Demonstrated experience working with higher education leadership to meet fundraising goals
Demonstrated ability and willingness to travel as needed.
Pay Rate
Target hiring range for this role is $95,101 to $128,385 and the final offer will be commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience in relation to the minimum qualifications for the position.
Total Compensation Estimator (For Full-Time Benefits Eligible Employees)
Discover the full value of joining Ohio University by clicking this link:
https://www.ohio.edu/hr/compensation/total-compensation-estimator
Our Total Compensation Estimator shows your offer package in dollars: salary plus university paid benefits including health coverage, retirement contributions, paid time off, tuition benefits, and more.
See details on what we offer in one place and compare different options for retirement and insurance.
Estimates are informational only; exact coverage is determined by eligibility policies and official plan documents.
Pay Range
$95,101.00-$163,086.00
Job Category
Administrative at-will appointment
Employment Type
full-time regular
Job Family
Development & Inst. Advancement
Job Sub Family
Development
Posting End Date
06/10/2026
Planning Unit
Vice President for University Advancement
Work Schedule
Standard working hours are Monday – Friday,8:00A – 5:00P,
May be based in either the Dublin or Athens office, with the expectation of being on the Athens campus on a regular basis and as needed and as requested by the supervisor.
Expected hours worked per week
40.0
Expected duration of assignment
indefinite
Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Ohio university is proud of its rich history and as part of our ongoing efforts to provide and support a transformative learning experience, we affirm our commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful workforce and community. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration free from discrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military service or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a parent or foster parent, or any other bases under the law. Ohio university is an equal access/equal opportunity employer.
