Careers at RMU

Position Department: University Advancement

Position Type: Staff Full-Time

Robert Morris University invites applications for the full-time position of Executive Director of Leadership Giving. This position is a part of the University Advancement team, which is responsible for developing, planning and implementing a comprehensive program of fundraising and constituent relations focused on engagement and financial support. 

As a key member of the University Advancement leadership team, the Executive Director will be responsible for implementing comprehensive advancement strategies that align with RMU’s strategic plan. The successful candidate will be a chief strategic partner to RMU’s Chief Advancement Officer. The Executive Director will lead major and planned gift initiatives from a variety of constituencies, including individuals, corporations and foundations, fostering a culture of philanthropy and connection among diverse stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in higher education advancement, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to inspire and cultivate lasting relationships with donors, alumni, and community partners. This position reports to the Chief Advancement Officer. 

• Partners with the Chief Advancement Officer to develop and implement comprehensive advancement strategies that support the university’s mission, strategic plan, and financial goals.
• Collaborates with university leadership to identify funding priorities and create compelling cases for support.
• Develops a data-driven departmental fundraising and engagement plan, encompassing all steps of the donor cycle.
• Leads major gift, planned gift, foundation relations, and corporate relations, including staff supervision.
• Manages a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, cultivating and soliciting major gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
• Serves as a chief liaison between RMU University Advancement and RMU Division One athletic program, which includes close working relationships with athletics development officers.
• Ensure efficient and effective advancement operations, including data management, analytics and reporting, gift processing, and prospect research.
• Implements processes to track and analyze fundraising performance, providing data-driven insights to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Serve as a lead to University-wide fundraising campaigns.
• In conjunction with Chief Advancement Officer, leads implementation of planned giving program through marketing and prospecting strategy, as well as assisting in the solicitation of planned gifts.
• Develops strong, positive relationships with the RMU community to establish University Advancement as the major resource and coordinator for all University fundraising.
• Keeps well-informed of current best practices in the profession and evaluates new and emerging ideas for potential implementation at RMU. Maintains and updates the department's policies, processes, and procedures.
• Attends University events where appropriate, or in place of CAO or University President when they are unable, especially when the audience includes internal and external stakeholders, prospects, donors, Board of Trustees members, or other participants critical to the work of University Advancement.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of seven years non-profit experience, preferably in higher education development, alumni relations or marketing.
• Demonstrated success in leadership roles are especially important, as the role works directly with University leadership, including the President and members of the Board of Trustees,
• Experience in planning and executing comprehensive campaigns, major gift fundraising, and alumni engagement.
• Demonstrated record of success in securing significant major gifts, including planned gifts.
• Excellent communication, organization, time management, analytical and administrative skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member; takes initiative; prioritizes, problem-solves, analyzes and summarizes information; detail-oriented with the ability to see the larger picture.
• Experience managing a professional staff, with ability to recruit, motivate and develop a team.
• Demonstrated ability to strategize, implement and build constituency programs and activities.
• Strong written communications skillset, including working knowledge of web-based content management systems (CMS), social networking sites, and e-communications vehicles.
• Strong oral communications skills, including significant experience in public speaking.
• Skillset with Raisers Edge NXT preferred.
• Experience in planning, organizing and facilitating a wide range of special events.
• Demonstrated accomplishment in fostering productive relationships with volunteers, including recruiting, training and motivating volunteers.
• Ability and experience in developing cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Willingness to travel locally and nationally, and work nights and weekends as required.

Exemption Status: Exempt

Act 153 Clearance Required: No

Required To Pass a Motor Vehicle Report Check (If driving on behalf of the University): Yes

Required to Pass a Credit Check: Yes

Additional Posting Information: None

Special Applicant Instructions: None

Robert Morris University is committed to increasing diversity in our community and actively pursues individuals from all backgrounds. Additionally, RMU complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws and provides equal opportunity in all educational programs and activities, admission of students and conditions of employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or national origin.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please email humanresources@rmu.edu or call us at (412) 397-6270 if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job.