Director of Development for Principal Gift Strategies

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

University Development's purpose is to support the mission of the university by raising private resources to enhance financial support for students, faculty, programs, and facilities. University Development provides leadership and centralized services to all development offices throughout the University, serving as a focal point for annual giving, application development and IT support; campaign management; constituent programs; corporate and foundation relations; donor relations; gift planning; gift services; industry relations; marketing/communications; parents giving; principal gifts; prospect management, research and analytics; regional programs; scholarships and student aid; talent management; university events; and volunteer engagement.

Carolina Development is proud of its donor-centered philosophy, pursuing activities that always respect the interests and intentions of the donor as well as the University. The organization's collaborative nature is a critical component to fulfilling our mission of raising private funds to benefit the university.

Location, Location, Location
* Want to live in Chapel Hill? If so, we have tons of perks to offer you. Discounts and access to many UNC-CH athletics, Performing Arts, Gym memberships and many more on campus and local community opportunities along with a perks program that provides employees with over 800 local deals.
* Want to live outside of Chapel Hill but still in the area? You have a choice of smaller communities, cities, or even suburbs in areas like Raleigh and Durham. Both living experiences offer a multitude of advantages designed to fit your needs and still enjoy the perks offered by UNC-CH.

Tuition & Fee Waiver Program: Check out our Tuition & Fee Waivers Programs - https://hr.unc.edu/benefits/educational-assistance/tuition-waivers/

Benefits: Explore the benefits of working at UNC-CH - https://hr.unc.edu/benefits/

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and transferable skills!

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station in Chapel Hill, NC.

The Director of Development for Principal Gift Strategies serves as the principal lead for a portfolio of approximately 15-25 high-capacity donors and prospects, overseeing relationships from late-stage cultivation through proposal development, solicitation, gift closure, and long-term stewardship. This role partners closely with development officers during the final stages of principal gift conversations, ensuring adherence to best practices, and supporting the achievement of transformational philanthropic outcomes. Working in collaboration with chief development officers and senior leadership, the Director ensures that principal gift strategies are comprehensive, executable, and aligned with institutional priorities; that gift concepts are thoroughly vetted and viable; and that prospects are appropriately prepared to receive seven-, eight-, or nine-figure proposals. The Director also serves as a continuity and risk-mitigation resource for donor relationships, providing stability, strategic oversight, and assurance throughout the cultivation and solicitation process. In addition, the Director provides supervision and oversight of assigned staff, including hiring, coaching, training, assigning work, and managing performance to ensure a high-functioning principal gifts team.

Minimum of a bachelor's degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with related experience. For positions with responsibility for direct solicitation of gifts and funds, a minimum of 1 year of professional-level, direct solicitation/fundraising experience is required.

The Director of Development for Principal Gift Strategies will be a seasoned and polished professional who knows and understands the nature and purpose of higher education. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills required. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and collaboratively in a comprehensive, research university setting with a proven record of accomplishments. An ability to work effectively with volunteer leaders. The drive to be successful. Exceptional organizational skills.

Five to seven years of progressive fundraising and/or communications experience.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.