Director of Strategic Initiatives

Rice University has retained Lindauer, an executive search firm, to assist in this search. Consideration of candidates will continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit, in confidence, a resume and cover letter. Communications, nominations, applications, and inquiries concerning this search should be directed to Raegan Harvey, Senior Consultant, rharvey@lindauerglobal.com and Cori Anderson, Consultant, canderson@lindauerglobal.com.

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary:

As a member of the Principal Gifts team in the Development and Alumni Relations division at Rice University, the Director of Strategic Initiatives serves as a conduit of information and strategy for the leaders of university initiatives to advance the priorities of each program by partnering with deans, faculty, and university leadership to obtain project concepts and by working with fundraising colleagues on the development of complex proposals.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a demonstrated track record in development, will be adept at collaboration and communication, will be an active listener who demonstrates empathy and understanding, and will have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They will also be an expert at navigating complex situations and projects, and will possess deep passion for education and enthusiasm for Rice University.

Workplace Requirements:

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change. 

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime. 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s Degree 
• 8+ years of successful professional development experience, including the creation of strategies for donors capable of gifts of $1 million or more, and demonstrated understanding of the process of cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding high-level major gifts
• 2+ years of experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity
• Experience-based ability to recognize high potential giving opportunities, and the knowledge of the giving techniques and strategies to maximize that potential
• Experience working with and establishing budgets for fundraising projects
• Experience working in a comprehensive fundraising campaign

Skills: 

• Ability to develop and initiate new strategies
• Advanced problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills and interpersonal skills
• Ability to understand complex issues within a multifaceted organization
• Demonstrated ability to identify main audiences and determine the best way to communicate information to them
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with university stakeholders, alumni, and corporate partners
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage projects simultaneously
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
• Excellent data analysis skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules
• Ability to express ideas in a group setting
• Adept at problem solving, creating contingency plans, and handling issues when necessary
• Excellent client service orientation and attention to detail
• Ability to take initiative and collaborate with others
• Strategic skills to craft and implement fundraising and/or project plans
• Ability to be