You + Reed

The Director of Principal Gifts has the ability to make a transformational impact on the life of the college by expanding a successful principal gift program. The Director is a senior member of the Advancement team, responsible for designing and leading strategies to secure gifts of $1 million and above.  This position personally manages a portfolio of high-level prospects and collaborates with the president, heads of college divisions, trustees, and gift officers to advance Reed’s mission through significant philanthropic partnerships. The Director of Principal Gifts may supervise Gift Officers. This position reports to the Executive Director of Development Leadership and Strategies and is under the division of the College Advancement.                                   

Reed College offers an exceptional benefits package, including a comprehensive and cost-free medical and dental insurance option for you (Reed pays 60% on medical and dental insurance premiums for your dependent), 403(b) retirement plan with 10% employer contribution (after one year of service), educational assistance for employees and their children, 22 days of paid vacation, paid holidays, half-day Fridays in the summer, and many other campus amenities. This is a full-time position with typical work hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one hour unpaid lunch. 

Starting salary for this position is $140,000 - $145,000. Pay offers are contingent upon experience and are determined through an internal pay assessment. This is an exempt position in grade 11.

Who You Are

• You are a proven day to day fundraiser along with multi-year comprehensive campaign fundraising experience

• You enjoy being a team player and celebrating team success

• You enjoy working collaboratively with organizational leadership, donors, and other campus partners

• You are a creative problem solver

• You understand the importance of data-informed decisions

• You are a natural relationship builder 

• You are a high level strategic thinker regarding donor engagement 

• You lead with an aspirational mindset  

• You are an exceptional communicator across broad and diverse audiences

• You have a track record of building strategies and facilitating actions with administrative leaders and gift officers

What You’ll Do

Program Leadership and Strategy

• Lead the development and execution of the principal gifts program to secure gifts of $1 million and more

• Implement clear systems, processes, and prospect management practices that drive sustained, long-term increasing philanthropic outcomes

• Collaborate with advancement colleagues to align fundraising efforts with academic and strategic priorities

• Prepare the President, Vice President, and other senior leaders for donor travel, engagement, and solicitations

• Work with the campaign chair and manage Campaign Leadership Committee volunteers

Donor Management

• Develop and manage a portfolio of 75+ top-tier prospects

• Build and maintain relationships through personalized and frequent communication, including one-on-one meetings and tailored proposals

• Utilize data and research tools to track progress and maximize engagement

• Travel is required

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree

• 7 years of relevant fundraising experience, including a track record of successfully soliciting and securing gifts in the seven- and eight-figure range

Application Instructions

Click below to apply. You will be directed to Interfolio to create a free account and begin your application. A resume and cover letter are required. You can submit these documents in any format, but pdf works best. 

Applications will be considered as they are submitted so you are encouraged to apply early. 

Reed College replies to every candidate. We will confirm that your application is received, and if you are not selected, we will let you know as soon as possible.