Director of Development, College of Engineering and Computer Science
University of TennesseeAbout the role
The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc (UTFI) invites applications and nominations to fill the position of Director of Development for the College of Engineering and Computer Science on the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga campus. Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor of Advancement, and working in alignment with the CECS Dean’s vision, the Director of Development is responsible for leading and implementing the major gift philanthropic fundraising strategy for the College of Engineering and Computer Science, focusing on identifying, cultivating, and soliciting gifts of $25,000 or more from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
This role will develop compelling cases for support that communicate the impact of philanthropic investments in engineering and computer science education and research.
Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Major Gift Fundraising: Direct, develop, and conduct major gift fundraising efforts for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Collaborate with the dean, campus leaders, faculty members, department heads and volunteers to identify philanthropic opportunities and strengthen engagement in fundraising and donor stewardship activities. Cultivate and expand partnerships with corporate and industry leaders to support student experiential learning and research collaborations. The Director will manage and steward 60–85 major prospects, with minimum annual expectations of 100 donor visits, 18 proposals, and $1,500,000 raised.
Special Events & Donor Relations: Coordinate with Annual Giving and Alumni Affairs and MarCom and Events on projects and strategies for assigned college/unit including direct response, crowdfunding, give days, and faculty/campaign efforts. Collaborate with alumni engagement and communications teams to strengthen alumni participation and philanthropic engagement within the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Assist in college-focused special events for fundraising and stewardship purposes, including support of the Dean’s Advisory Board and other volunteer leadership groups, donor engagement events, and stewardship activities.
Required Education and Experience
The candidate who fills the Director of Development position is required to have:
Bachelor’s degree
5+ years of fundraising, sales, business development or closely related experience
A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required due to travel responsibilities of the position. UTFI reserves the right to consider all appropriate circumstances. In general, any significant driving offense less than 12 months old will eliminate the application from consideration for the position.
Note - Candidates holding a graduate degree must have at least 3 years of experience.
Preferred Education and Experience
In addition to meeting the required qualifications, the preferred candidate will have:
Master’s degree
Progressive fundraising, advancement, business development, or related experience
Demonstrated success in cultivating and securing major gifts or strategic partnerships.
Application Process: Priority will be given to applications received on or before May 11th via our DASH application system. Applications must include a completed candidate profile, cover letter, and resume. Candidates selected to move forward in the evaluation process will be asked to provide contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without explicit permission of the candidate.
When determining minimum qualifications, only information entered into the candidate profile can be considered. Please ensure your candidate profile is completed in its entirety as it relates to qualifying education/work experience.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.
Questions about the search may be directed to hr@utfi.org.
Target Start Date: July 2026
Benefits: The Foundation’s greatest asset is our team. Foundation employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes: