Director of Gift Planning

Gift Planning is a program area of considerable scope and complexity including management of estate gifts, wills and bequest intentions, retirement plans, real estate, life insurance, charitable trusts and other gift vehicles. Planned Gifts accounted for 26% of all giving during the Think and Do the Extraordinary Campaign which was completed in December, 2021.Reporting to the Executive Director of Gift Planning and working in close collaboration with members of the University Development team, the Director will be responsible for identifying and qualifying prospects, and for building and maintaining an active portfolio of 125-150 gift planning prospects. He/she will be expected to engage donors and prospects through face-to-face meetings and personal contacts. The Director will also work to maintain strong relationships with existing donors through annual stewardship visits.The Director will work on the implementation and administration of the campus wide Gift Planning program. He/she will regularly meet and partner with colleagues in college and unit-based fundraising operations to investigate the viability of identified fundraising opportunities and provide counsel to prospective donors and their advisers on all aspects of gift planning.The Director will perform other duties related to the Office of Gift Planning as assigned by the Executive Director. This includes working closely with members of the Gift Planning team, University Development, Development Officers and the Advancement Services staff.The Director performs these duties in a professional and positive manner, and demonstrates integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work well with a variety of people and styles.Duties and Responsibilities:Work in close collaboration with the Executive Director of Gift Planning to develop fundraising goals and plans for planned and blended gifts from individuals including estate gifts, wills and bequest intentions, retirement plans, real estate, life insurance, charitable trusts and other gift vehicles.Participate in all aspects of the gift cycle; lead strategies to identify, qualify, cultivate and manage a pool of gift planning donors and prospects, monitoring and reporting progress regularly.Collaborate effectively with the offices of Central Major Gifts, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Annual Giving, and unit/college advancement offices to develop strategies for blended gifts and to maximize leads and partnering opportunities; serve as a resource by assisting with planned giving discussions and donor presentations.Work closely with the prospect research team to develop a strong and continuous donor pipeline.Ensure that all donors are appropriately recognized, thanked and receive regular contact and communication by making donor engagement and stewardship a priority.Participate in all relevant University-wide development activities and meetings.Other Responsibilities and Duties:Perform other duties as required or assigned by the Executive Director of Gift Planning.Attend a variety of events throughout the year.Regular travel and occasional night and weekend work is required.