Development Director, Humanities and Education

At the University of Montana Foundation, the lives we change will change the world. We inspire donors to bolster UM’s mission of providing an accessible, affordable, and world-class education.

Our UM Foundation development team works collaboratively at the intersection between donors’ philanthropic passions and the University’s greatest opportunities for growth. Members of our development team advise donors through the giving cycle – from identification to gift closure.

Today, we have an excellent opportunity for a fundraising professional to raise resources in the academic areas of the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education within UM’s College of Humanities & Sciences and the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio and build relationships with prospective and current donors, with frequent travel around Montana and occasional out-of-state travel
• Develop and execute strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors
• Inspire philanthropic support from donors by learning and articulating UM’s mission, values, and fundraising priorities
• Coordinate the participation of the deans and faculty in fundraising activities
• Work in collaboration with UM Foundation teams including Development, Prospect Research and Management, Marketing and Communications, Stewardship, and Gift and Fund Administration

Why Work for Us?

• Retirement 403(b) employer contribution of 11%
• Opportunity for a part-time remote work arrangement each week
• Generous time off – Team members accrue four weeks of vacation and 12 days of sick leave per year, with an additional 12 days of holiday leave
• Paid parental leave of four weeks for new parents
• Short-term and long-term disability pay protection benefits
• Medical, Dental, Vision, wellness program and more
•  Professional development opportunities, including fundraising training with Plus Delta Partners 
• Competitive Pay – candidates can request the starting pay range by emailing [email protected]

Ideal Candidate:

We seek a candidate who excels in relationship-building, possesses a high level of self-motivation, and is team-oriented.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
• Minimum of three years of relevant work experience, including nonprofit fundraising experience, or could include sales.
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Ability and willingness to drive and travel.
•  Knowledge of the major gift process, experience soliciting individuals for philanthropic gifts, and experience working in higher education or a similarly complex field preferred.

The University of Montana Foundation is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation to participate in the recruitment process at the University of Montana Foundation, contact [email protected]. All hiring decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.

Priority Application Date:

Monday, December 2, 2024. Complete applications received by this date will be guaranteed consideration.

If you do not meet all the qualifications of the position, you are still encouraged to apply.

About the University of Montana Foundation

The UM Foundation connects donors’ passions with needs and opportunities at the University of Montana. Serving the University as an independent nonprofit, the UM Foundation manages the University’s private fundraising efforts, donations and investment of endowed gifts.

The UM Foundation is celebrating the recent completion of the most successful higher education fundraising campaign in state history, inspiring donors to give over $450 million to elevate every student, school and college, and is now intentionally growing to meet the next philanthropic needs and opportunities of the University of Montana.

The UM Foundation is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the people and culture of the University it serves. UM Foundation employees enjoy a collaborative culture and inspiring mission to support the University and its students.

Core Values

Our core values guide us in all that we do:

• We are passionate about delivering an exceptional donor experience
• We inspire each other to do our best work
• We act with integrity and respect
• We innovate thoughtfully and with purpose

About the University of Montana

As Montana’s flagship university and a top-tier R1 research institution, the University of Montana sets a high bar for academic studies, creative accomplishments, and scientific exploration. Students receive a world-class education in a broad range of subjects that include the trades, liberal arts, sciences, graduate and postdoctoral study and professional training.

Our Missoula Community

Missoula is a thriving community of 77,000 residents who make their home where five valleys converge. Set in an outdoor playground of majestic mountains, scenic valleys and winding rivers, Missoula residents enjoy four distinct seasons, an energetic college-town vibe, a vibrant downtown, and unparalleled recreational opportunities.