Working/Functional Title
Director of Foundation Relations, MI/MW
Position Summary
Michigan State University Advancement is seeking a Director of Foundation Relations with a strategic focus on private foundations based in Michigan and the greater Midwest region. This position is responsible for managing a portfolio of regional foundation prospects and donors, deepening MSU’s engagement with these funders, and helping to secure philanthropic support that aligns with university priorities in research, education, outreach, and innovation.
The Director will play a key role in strengthening and expanding MSU’s relationships with foundations rooted in the Midwest, cultivating new regional partnerships, and elevating the visibility of MSU's work in areas aligned with funder interests.
Primary Responsibilities
Foundation Cultivation, Solicitation, and Stewardship -
• Manage cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of assigned Michigan and Midwest-based foundation donors and prospects, including those with ongoing or annual grant programs.
• Identify new foundation opportunities within the region and build relationships that connect funder interests with MSU’s mission and strengths.
• Act as a primary liaison to regional foundation program officers and leadership, maintaining consistent communication and engagement to promote MSU as a strong funding partner.
• Collaborate with development officers, faculty, and campus leaders to coordinate proposal development that aligns with foundation priorities and ensures compliance with funder guidelines.
• Support MSU faculty and administrators in pursuing competitive regional foundation awards and assist in developing compelling proposals and strategic narratives.
• Coordinate stewardship activities and grant reporting for regional foundation awards, ensuring timely submission of deliverables and strengthening long-term partnerships.
• Organize strategic visits and meetings with Midwest foundation representatives for MSU leadership, deans, faculty, and University Advancement leadership.
Strategy Development and Implementation -
• Develop and implement engagement strategies for foundations in Michigan and surrounding states to increase awareness of MSU’s research strengths, community engagement, and statewide impact.
• Monitor and track regional foundation trends, priorities, and funding cycles, sharing relevant opportunities with campus partners and leadership.
• Stay informed about MSU’s programs, strategic initiatives, and institutional priorities to identify alignment with regional foundation interests.
• Work closely with colleagues across the Foundation and Corporate Relations Teams and the broader University Advancement division to integrate foundation strategy into overall advancement efforts.
• Help position MSU as a go-to grantee and thought partner for regional foundations addressing key issues such as health equity, workforce development, education access, sustainability, and innovation.
Reporting Structure
Reports to the Senior Director of Foundation Relations.
Minimum Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing and/or Business; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public relations, volunteer administration, professional and higher education fund raising, marketing or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel within Michigan and the Midwest.
Desired Qualifications
- A four-year college degree in Nonprofit Leadership, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Business, or a related field.
- Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in higher education fundraising, foundation relations, or working directly at a private foundation or similar organization.
- Demonstrated success in managing external relationships and securing funding.
- Strong familiarity with Michigan and Midwest-based foundations and their philanthropic priorities.
- Experience aligning faculty research and institutional initiatives with regional funder interests.
- Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills with an ability to distill complex ideas into compelling narratives.
- Goal-driven, collaborative, and highly organized, with strong initiative and attention to detail.
- High level of comfort working with university leaders, faculty, and external partners.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
Resume and cover letter
Special Instructions
Interested in joining the team at Michigan State University? For questions, contact Patricia Karam, Director of Talent Acquisition, at karampat@msu.edu.
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Work Hours
8 am - 5 pm with possible evenings and weekends
Website
Advancement.msu.edu
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment, and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Bidding eligibility ends on May 5, 2026, at 11:55 PM
