Director for Development

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 University of Washington Tacoma is a growing, urban-serving university that is deeply invested in its local and regional community. As one of three campuses of a world-class university, UW Tacoma is dedicated to innovative teaching, scholarship and to engaging the community in mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations. UW Tacoma’s commitment to diversity and accessibility for all is central to an environment where students, staff, faculty and South Sound residents find abundant opportunities for intellectual, personal and professional growth.

UW Tacoma has an exciting opening for a Director for Development. This is a full-time permanent position.

The Director for Development is a front-line fundraiser responsible for developing and executing strategies to solicit gifts of greatest impact in support of the University of Washington Tacoma. Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Development, this position partners with Deans, faculty, academic and student affairs leaders, and volunteers to plan and sustain gift identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts. The Director for Development is accountable for directing fundraising initiatives for assigned schools, units, and programs.

What You Will Do:

Frontline Fundraising (70%)

• Manage a portfolio of philanthropic prospects, focusing on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors who have the capacity to make major gifts.

• Identify and qualify new donor prospects using research tools, donor information, and professional networks, including prospects interested in planned giving.

• Engage donors and prospects through meaningful interactions, primarily face-to-face, and translate those conversations into clear, actionable cultivation and solicitation plans.

• Prepare, submit, and follow through on major gift proposals, including solicitations of $100,000 or more, aligned with fundraising priorities.

• Work within an established fundraising metrics and accountability framework, managing activity levels, proposals, progress toward goals, and reporting regularly on results.

• Work collaboratively with advancement colleagues across the University to coordinate donor engagement, prepare briefing materials, and support solicitation efforts.

• Prepare proposals, gift agreements, and supporting materials in coordination with advancement and gift services colleagues, ensuring accurate documentation and timely donor acknowledgment.

• Engage volunteers and advisory board members, when appropriate, to support fundraising and donor relationships.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records and participate in prospect tracking using the University of Washington’s donor database.

• Stay informed about fundraising priorities and work with campus leaders and advancement colleagues to support gifts for both immediate and long-term impact.

Strategy and Program Development (25%)

• Develop and lead fundraising strategies for assigned schools, units, and academic and student affairs programs, using best practices to meet established goals; provide strategic guidance to shape and advance philanthropic priorities.

• Create and implement an annual fundraising plan that outlines clear goals, strategies, and priorities, and track progress throughout the year.

• Design and carry out development programs and targeted fundraising initiatives that support sustained and increased philanthropic support.

• Regularly evaluate fundraising programs, assess progress toward goals, and share clear updates on outcomes and impact.

• Effectively communicate and advocate for UW Tacoma’s mission, priorities, and funding needs to donors and community partners.

• Represent UW Tacoma at donor engagements, campus events, and relevant professional gatherings.

• Support marketing and communications efforts by identifying compelling stories and opportunities that highlight fundraising priorities and impact.

Other duties as assigned (5%)

Required Qualifications:

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both 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 Requirements: 

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

A bachelor’s degree AND five (5) years of experience in development/advancement, with an emphasis on frontline fundraising, stewarding and soliciting major gifts.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in major gift fundraising, with a strong understanding of the full donor engagement process, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

• Proven ability to build and maintain donor-centered relationships based on trust, credibility, and long-term partnership.

• Experience working toward clearly defined fundraising goals and activity metrics, with the ability to track progress, manage performance expectations, and use data to inform strategy.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to navigate differing perspectives and resolve conflict through open, respectful dialogue.

• High ethical standards and sound judgment, with a commitment to integrity, transparency, and responsible fundraising practices.

• Effective critical thinking and decision-making skills, particularly in complex or evolving situations.

• Familiarity with donor databases and fundraising systems.

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid-work schedule with four days in the office and one day eligible for telework per week. 

• Cubicle/open workspace environment that may result in higher noise levels and visual distractions.

• Ability to work evening and weekend hours, as necessary, on short or limited notice.

• Access to regular and reliable transportation for local travel.

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Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$108,000.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$120,000.00 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.