Associate Director for Advancement

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 Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity (OMA&D) has an exciting opening for an Associate Director for Advancement.  This is a full-time permanent position.

The Associate Director for Advancement serves as a key frontline fundraiser responsible for identifying, qualifying, soliciting and stewarding major gift prospects in support of OMA&D. As a member of the broader advancement team for Academic and Student Affairs, the Associate Director will develop and execute discovery, engagement and solicitation strategies in coordination with advancement efforts across Academic and Student Affairs units. This role will work independently, managing a robust portfolio of major gift prospects and donor relationships, while collaborating across OMA&D and University Advancement to design and execute strategies that align donor interests with institutional priorities.

What You Will Do

Frontline Fundraising & Portfolio Management (70%)

• Manage a portfolio of 75+ major gift prospects, with a focus on those ready to be solicited within 12–18 months.
• Conduct outreach and engagement activities including substantive donor conversations, gift qualifications and solicitations aligned with OMA&D priorities and initiatives.
• Develop and execute donor engagement and solicitation strategies aligned with established best practices, budgets and performance metrics.
• Drive fundraising initiatives tied to marquee events, including the successful solicitation and closure of direct gifts. Prepare proposals, briefing materials and stewardship plans to advance major gifts of $100,000 and above.
• Communicate clearly about program impact and outcomes to advance donor engagement and strengthen relationships.
• Maintain accurate and timely records in University Advancement’s database and meet established fundraising goals.

Relationship Management & Engagement (20%)

• Represent OMA&D's mission and the University's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion to donors and partners.
• Partner with colleagues to design and execute inclusive engagement and stewardship strategies that demonstrate program impact.
• Coordinate donor engagement and attendance at OMA&D events, including the Celebration Gala.
• Prepare briefings and strategy materials to support unit leadership and volunteers in donor engagement.
• Build and maintain relationships with advisory boards, councils and affinity groups to deepen engagement and expand the donor base.

Strategy, Operations & Collaboration (10%)

• Partner with the Director for Advancement to set annual goals and fundraising strategies.
• Track progress toward goals and contribute to reporting.
• Stay informed about OMA&D initiatives and ensure work aligns with university policy and fundraising best practices.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings and collaborations across university departments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

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 Manager.

Bachelor's degree AND four years of experience in development, advancement, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education advancement or major gift fundraising, particularly with experience in donor qualification and engagement processes.
• Experience securing six-figure gifts.
• Familiarity with advancement databases and CRM systems.
• Experience managing budgets and tracking performance metrics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to build strong relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and autonomously.
• Ability to engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives; demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion and access.
• Experience working within a large, decentralized organization (higher education or otherwise).
• Familiarity with or connection to the University of Washington, its alumni and donor community, or OMA&D's mission and the communities it serves.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

What You Can Expect

• Ability to work in person, onsite at the UW Seattle campus with some flexibility. 
• Workload and times may vary, including occasional evenings or weekends.
• Access to reliable transportation for local travel and willingness to travel when necessary.
• Frequent local travel expected.

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Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

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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.