Job Description

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is widely regarded as the global leader in aerospace education, consistently recognized for its top-ranked programs, dedication to innovation, and nearly 100-year legacy of academic excellence. As we enter our Centennial Campaign—a historic moment in the university’s trajectory—we are seeking an experienced and strategic fundraising professional to join the Office of Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement as the Senior Executive Director of Philanthropy for the College of Aviation at our Daytona Beach campus.

This is not just a leadership position, it’s a chance to shape the future of aviation and aerospace education. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Philanthropy and working in close partnership with the Dean of the College of Aviation, the Senior Executive Director will lead key philanthropic initiatives that directly support the college’s growth and the university’s broader mission.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead Major Gift Fundraising Efforts:
  Manage a portfolio of 75–150 major gift prospects (individuals, corporations, and foundations) with an annual goal of securing $3M+ in philanthropic support through strategic cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.

• Serve as Advancement Liaison to the College of Aviation:
  Partner with the Dean and college leadership to align fundraising strategy with institutional priorities. Participate in leadership meetings and coordinate with central advancement teams on key initiatives including annual giving, planned giving, donor relations, and communications.

• Develop and Execute Donor Engagement Strategies:
  Create compelling donor communications, proposals, and impact reports. Plan and support cultivation and stewardship events, and collaborate closely with the communications and stewardship teams to maintain consistent and effective outreach.

• Supervise Philanthropy Staff:
  Provide leadership and support to the Director and Associate Director of Philanthropy. Promote a collaborative and inclusive team culture and ensure coordination with broader university advancement efforts.

• Support Strategic Advancement Initiatives:
  Participate in cross-functional planning, maintain detailed records in Salesforce CRM, and perform other duties as assigned in support of university-wide development goals.

Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle! 

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 18 days of personal leave in your first year, plus 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day.  

• Health Benefits: Access comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, wellness programs, and fitness memberships. Flexible spending and health savings accounts help you manage healthcare costs. 

• Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for one undergraduate and one graduate degree. Your spouse and dependent children up to age 26 are eligible for 100% coverage for undergraduate tuition and 80% for graduate tuition. 

• Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes 6% of your base salary to your retirement plan annually, plus a 4% matching contribution, with no vesting period. 

Embry-Riddle is committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We strive to ensure that all faculty, staff, and students are treated fairly and provided equal opportunities for employment, advancement, compensation, training, and other benefits of employment. Embry‑Riddle is strongly opposed to discrimination and harassment, and such behavior is prohibited by university policy. Embry‑Riddle does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, age, religion, or pregnancy status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law, in its employment, educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school-administered programs or activities. For further information, please visit our website.  

Qualifications

Professional Experience:

Required:

• 7–10 years of full-time