Foundation Executive Director - Leading Educational Advancement

Intro/Summary

Join a prominent public educational foundation in the Midwest as their next Executive Director, where you'll drive philanthropic strategy and lead transformative giving initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to bridge institutional advancement with donor engagement, working alongside senior leadership to shape the future of higher education through strategic philanthropic leadership.

Job Duties

• Provide strategic direction for foundation operations, including policy development and implementation
• Lead donor engagement initiatives, dedicating 75% of time to managing and cultivating major donor relationships
• Drive metrics-informed advancement operations across major gifts, planned giving, alumni relations, and corporate partnerships
• Oversee foundation financial operations, including fund management and disbursement approval
• Collaborate with institutional leadership to align philanthropic initiatives with strategic priorities
• Serve as key liaison between the foundation board and institutional leadership
• Build and maintain relationships through regular travel and event representation

Qualifications

• Proven track record in philanthropic leadership and major gift cultivation
• Experience in foundation or higher education advancement
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of foundation operations
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning and implementation
• History of building and maintaining high-level stakeholder relationships

Desired Traits

• Strategic thinker with exceptional relationship-building abilities
• Collaborative leader who can unite diverse stakeholders
• Strong communicator capable of engaging with high-level donors and board members
• Results-driven professional with metrics-focused mindset
• Passionate advocate for higher education advancement
• Ability to travel regularly and represent the organization at various events

This role offers an exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact on educational advancement while working with dedicated professionals and engaged donors. The successful candidate will join a forward-thinking institution committed to educational excellence through philanthropic support.