Associate Director for Development, Social Sciences

Job Description

For over 160 years, the University of Washington has been a hub for learning, innovation, problem solving and community building. Supporting this legacy and important public mission—with the goal of making the UW the world’s greatest public university, as measured by positive impact—guides everything we do in University Advancement. Bringing together development; alumni and stakeholder engagement; marketing and communications; and advancement operations, we advance the UW’s impact by developing meaningful connections that foster pride, advocacy and philanthropic support.  

The mission of the Development team is to facilitate private resources to enhance and protect the University’s reputation and support equitable community building and service. This starts with creating a culture of belonging within our organization that values the diverse experiences and expertise of our team members, allowing everyone to thrive and to contribute their unique talents as we strive to achieve our shared goals.

The College of Arts and Sciences has an exciting opening for an Associate Director for Development, Social Sciences. This is a full-time permanent position.

The Associate Director for Development, Social Sciences manages a large portfolio of prospects with diverse interests across the 14 degree-granting programs within the Division of Social Sciences. Working with the advancement team, academic leaders, faculty and volunteers, this role secures major gifts that support academic programs, research and student initiatives. The Associate Director translates the College’s vision and strategic plan to diverse audiences, building strong donor relationships that lead to meaningful investments in students, faculty, programs and research.

What You Will Do

Frontline Fundraising (80%)

• Lead major gift fundraising efforts by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, negotiating and stewarding gifts of $100,000 or more, primarily from individuals, with some engagement of corporate and foundation partners.
• Manage a portfolio of 100 to 125 major gift prospects, developing and implementing individualized strategies and conducting ongoing qualification.
• Drive donor engagement and pipeline growth by making 75 to 125 substantive contacts annually, qualifying new prospects, including cold outreach and advancing relationships toward solicitation.
• Secure major gifts by soliciting five to ten gifts annually and raising approximately $375,000 to $4.5 million each year.
• Develop donor materials such as proposals, agreements and gift illustrations.
• Maintain accurate records in the prospect management system and report regularly to the Director of Development for Social Sciences.
• Work with the Director of Development for Social Sciences to develop gift strategies.
• Collaborate with staff in Principal Giving, Regional Giving, Planned Giving and Corporate and Foundation Relations in preparing solicitation strategies for assigned prospects in portfolio.
• Coordinate participation in major gift fundraising activities and engagement efforts for administrators, academic leaders, volunteers and advancement staff.
• Pursue professional development and provide training in major gift fundraising for staff, faculty and volunteers.
• Other duties assigned by the Director of Development for Social Sciences.

Strategy and Program Development (20%)

• Participate in annual planning and assist leadership in establishing annual goals, strategies, objectives and developing policies and procedures.
• Provide strategic leadership in designing and implementing advancement programs needed to sustain and grow university support. Evaluate programs, assess progress toward goals and report on results.
• Support marketing and communications efforts by editing and proofreading information, as needed.

Required Qualifications 

To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications will not be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Bachelor’s degree AND five years of experience in institutional development/advancement, with an emphasis on cultivating and soliciting major gifts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven capacity to build, steward and sustain strong donor and stakeholder relationships aligned with institutional priorities.
• Experience working independently and collaboratively to develop and execute fundraising strategies aligned with organizational mission and goals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively, demonstrate empathy and resolve conflicts through open dialogue.
• Strong organizational skills including managing multiple priorities, exercising sound judgment and performing effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
• Effectively collaborates as part of a team and building positive, productive relationships.
• Experience taking initiative, thinking creatively and identifying opportunities to achieve results.
• Demonstrated integrity and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding organizational values.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reports, data management and communications materials.
• Knowledge of alumni relations, development, or advancement principles.

What You Can Expect

• Hybrid schedule of three days in the office with two days eligible for telework per week.
• Cubicle/Open workspace environment which may result in additional or higher levels of noise and visual distractions.
• Workload and times may vary, including occasional evening and weekend hours and flexing in-office days, as necessary, on short or limited notice.
• Access to regular and reliable transportation for local travel and willing to travel when necessary.

Additional Application Requirement

This recruitment requires a cover letter. Applications that do not include a cover letter will not be forwarded to the hiring department. 

Please address the following in your cover letter: 

• Explain how your experience and qualifications align with a front-line fundraising position with emphasis on cultivating and soliciting major gifts. 

• Include your interest in the role, UW and the College of Arts and Sciences. 

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Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$100,992.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$112,212.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.