Sr. Director of Development (4249)

Friends University is seeking to fill the Senior Director of Development position in Wichita Kansas. The Senior Director of Development plays a key role in advancing the University’s fundraising goals through the oversight of annual giving, major and planned gifts, corporate and foundation relations, alumni engagement, and donor stewardship. In collaboration with the Vice President for Advancement, the Senior Director develops and implements annual fundraising strategies aligned with the University’s mission and strategic priorities. This includes setting measurable goals for revenue growth, donor acquisition, and retention. The Senior Director supervises the Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Fund, ensuring cohesive efforts between alumni engagement and annual giving. The role also supports the development of compelling proposals and donor communications, ensures consistent stewardship, and partners in the pursuit of foundation and federal grant opportunities. This position plays a key role in identifying and cultivating major gift prospects and strengthening a university-wide culture of philanthropy.

Friends University is committed to work-life balance for its employees by offering flex work options, up to 4 weeks of vacation, 96 hours of sick leave per year, up to 13 1/2 paid holidays, half day Fridays June through July, up to 5% retirement matching, and free undergraduate tuition for you, your spouse, and your dependents.

Friends University seeks to hire individuals who will embrace our mission and celebrate our commitment to equipping students to honor God in their personal, professional, and spiritual lives by adhering to the University’s RISE Core Values (Respect, Inclusion, Service and Excellence).  The mission of the University is:

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual, and professional lives.

Minimum of two years of successful development experience, with demonstrated ability to design and implement comprehensive fundraising programs and plans. Proven success in securing support from individuals and foundations. Experience in higher education and/or nonprofit fundraising is preferred. Familiarity with Ellucian/Banner database systems is also preferred.

Bachelor’s degree is required; master’s degree is preferred.

Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills are necessary; along with the ability to create, maintain and cultivate new relationships. Strong planning and organizational skills are necessary; along with the ability to multi-task, plan and organize meetings, strategize and build programs, and work collaboratively with a wide array of faculty, staff and constituents.

Please visit our employment site at https://www.friends.edu/employment-opportunities/  to apply.  Only applications submitted through this Friends University website application process will be accepted.

Friends University aspires to be a model of excellence in higher education. As an expression of our Christian faith, we aim to prepare our students for success in a diverse and interconnected world by providing transformative learning experiences that embrace different viewpoints. As we seek individuals to join our Friends University community, we encourage candidates who share our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion to apply. Join us as we continue on this journey towards a more just and inclusive future for all.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Friends University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or