Executive Director of Development, School of Medicine and Special Projects

The University of Pittsburgh’s Division of Philanthropic & Alumni Engagement (PAE) builds relationships with donors, alumni, and partners to advance Pitt and UPMC in teaching, research, and care. More information is available at pae.pitt.edu.

The Executive Director of Development (EDOD) serves within Health Sciences & Clinical Programs Advancement, reporting to the Vice Chancellor. The EDOD leads fundraising and alumni engagement for the School of Medicine, driving short‑term results and long‑term growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee School of Medicine fundraising and alumni relations. Partner with school leadership to build and execute annual fundraising plans.
• Lead School of Medicine fundraising for Pitt’s upcoming comprehensive campaign.
• Develop and manage fundraising strategies for the Vanscoy Winter Academy, White Coat Ceremony, and Discovery Science initiatives, collaborating with department chairs on targeted plans.
• Spend at least 50% of time engaging a portfolio of major gift prospects, primarily alumni and friends, with additional prospects for Winter Academy and Discovery Science.
• Build strategic relationships with Deans, faculty, volunteers, and staff to support qualification, cultivation, and solicitation of major gifts.
• Help develop and manage the School of Medicine Board of Visitors, including member pipeline development, engagement plans, and periodic presentations.

Required Qualifications

• Proven success securing major gifts of $100K+.
• Strong oral/written communication, persuasive ability, initiative, and team leadership.
• Excellent planning, project management, and ability to manage complex priorities.
• Experience in higher education, ideally within an Academic Medical Center, and ability to articulate its mission to donors.
• Sound judgment, ethical conduct, and discretion in donor and volunteer interactions.
• Regular travel and occasional evening/weekend work required.

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in supporting the University's mission.  

• Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive, innovative, and dynamic team.

• Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Ready to make a difference? Learn more about PAE and apply today.

Join us in shaping the future of education, research, and healthcare at the University of Pittsburgh!

Oversees development of a program, plans, and activities to create and execute a comprehensive development plan achieving new and recurring contributions to a school, foundation, program, and/or group. Manages a portfolio of major gift donors and strategically builds fundraising prospects. Assists leadership in facilitating a comprehensive communications plan and with development strategies.

• Must be a strong communicator, both verbally and written and be a collaborative person.
• Must be a very organized person and able to multi-task.
• Must be able to travel and have access to regular transportation in order to be able to easily get to meetings.

Little physical effort required. Duties are primarily sedentary. May be required to move objects up to 25 pounds occasionally.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.