Philanthropy Officer

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.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and transferable skills!

The Division of Student Success is seeking a dedicated Philanthropy Officer to join our team and support the fundraising efforts for Division. This role involves assisting in the development and execution of a strategic solicitation plan to meet fundraising goals. The Philanthropy Officer will cultivate and maintain relationships with prospective donors through in-person, virtual, and phone meetings, with a focus on securing donations and commitments of $5,000 or more, and by qualifying at least 24 new donor prospects and completing at least 150 face-to-face donor visits annually.

Reporting at this time to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development, Scholarships and Student Experience, the Philanthropy Officer will be an integral member of the Development team for the Division of Student Success. The Philanthropy Officer will be responsible for developing and executing a leadership annual and major gift fundraising strategy to support the mission of Division, including support for scholarships, student experiences, student support services, and more. In this role, the Philanthropy Officer will work collaboratively to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership and major gift prospects.

Key responsibilities include managing a portfolio of alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters of the University. The role emphasizes relationship-building and securing contributions through ongoing, personalized engagement. The Philanthropy Officer will also collaborate with the University Development Office and other teams to foster long-term donor relationships and support key fundraising initiatives for university projects and campaigns that focus on graduate and professional students. Additionally, the position involves partnering with the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development and directors of development for the Division of Student Success to develop fundraising strategies and plans in alignment with Division's goals and the upcoming comprehensive capital campaign.

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.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to work in a collaborative environment.
Ability to meet deadlines, and the ability to articulate persuasive messages effectively in writing and verbal presentations.
Proficiency in computer databases and word processing software.
Ability to travel and work evenings and weekends as necessary.

Ability to interact effectively in a comprehensive research university setting. Familiarity with the University's academic and administrative offices and their functions; knowledge of and ability to tap resources within the University community. Fundraising experience and/or related and transferable skills.

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.