Job Description Summary
Bentley University has partnered with Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Senior Managing Director of Major and Principal Giving. You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/6230.
Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Development, the Senior Managing Director of Major and Principal Gifts (SMD) is a key leadership role responsible for driving Bentley University’s philanthropic efforts focused on gifts of $100,000 and above. The SMD will oversee a high-performing team of frontline fundraisers and will personally manage a select portfolio of major and principal donors. This leader will set ambitious fundraising goals, establish and refine data-driven strategies, and ensure the team’s success in achieving and exceeding a baseline minimum of $10 - $15 million annually, with growth expectations over time.
The ideal candidate is an experienced manager, strategic thinker and proven fundraiser with a strong command of data analytics, team performance management, and donor strategy. They will be a collaborative leader with a deep commitment to advancing the mission of Bentley University through transformative philanthropy.
Essential Duties
- Develop and execute a comprehensive major and principal giving strategy that aligns with the University’s fundraising priorities and supports a minimum annual goal of $10-15 million, with a focus on long-term growth.
- Lead and inspire a team of 5+ frontline fundraisers, implementing metrics and KPIs for portfolio management and revenue generation.
- Implement data-driven approaches to assess and optimize fundraiser performance, inform training and coaching, and improve qualification, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
- Partner with leadership in annual giving and gift planning to create comprehensive solicitation strategies that support mutually shared goals.
- Collaborate with the Office of Alumni & Family Engagement and the Pulsifer Career Development Center to maximize resources and create opportunities to engage prospects and donors through events and other activities.
- Work with prospect research and advancement services, continuously analyze prospect and donor data to identify new opportunities, track progress toward goals, and refine team strategies for maximum impact.
- Manage a portfolio of high-capacity prospects and donors, ensuring meaningful engagement, timely solicitations, and effective stewardship.
- Leverage industry best practices, technology, and innovation to streamline operations, enhance donor experience, and ensure year-over-year growth in fundraising outcomes.
- Model and promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence, while advancing Bentley University’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Other Duties
- Participate in and organize, as appropriate, the planning of targeted cultivation events locally and out of state.
- Attend and staff events which may require travel, evening, and weekend. responsibilities.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of progressive fundraising experience in higher education or other complex organizations, with a proven track record of closing six- and seven-figure gifts and managing high-performing fundraising teams.
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience managing a team.
- Demonstrated success in achieving and exceeding fundraising goals, particularly gifts of $1 million or more.
- Strong proficiency in CRM donor databases, data analytics tools, and Microsoft 365 applications.
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic thinking skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to evolving circumstances, and work collaboratively across a complex organization.
- Commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the role.
- Must hold and maintain a valid, unrestricted US driver’s license, with an insurable driving history as determined by Bentley’s insurance carrier.
Work Environment
- Hybrid work environment with 2-3 days/week in office.
- Must be able to travel by car, plane and public transportation as position will require 10-20% overnight and day travel.
- Some weekend and evening duties are required.
Bentley University requires references checks and may conduct other pre-employment screening.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Bentley University strives to create a campus community that welcomes the exchange of ideas, and fosters a culture that values differences and views them as a strength in our community.
Bentley University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, building strength through diversity. The University is committed to building a community of talented students, faculty and staff who reflect the diversity of global business. We strongly encourage applications from persons from underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, covered veterans and those with diverse experiences and backgrounds.