Chief Development Officer

Thank you for your interest in employment with Louisiana Tech University.

Position Overview:

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) will lead the strategic direction, development, and execution of comprehensive fundraising initiatives to support the growth and sustainability of Louisiana Tech University and its Foundation. The CDO will cultivate a culture of philanthropy within the university community and beyond, fostering strong relationships with donors, alumni, corporate partners, and other stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning and Leadership:

• Develop and implement a strategic fundraising plan that aligns with the university's mission and goals.
• Lead and mentor the development team, promoting a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Provide visionary leadership to drive innovation in fundraising strategies and donor engagement.

Fundraising and Development:

• Oversee all aspects of fundraising, including major gifts, planned giving, annual giving, corporate and foundation relations, and capital campaigns.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, building long-term relationships that result in significant philanthropic support.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase alumni engagement and participation in giving.

Donor Relations and Stewardship:

• Create and execute a comprehensive donor stewardship program to recognize and thank donors at all levels.
• Ensure the timely and accurate reporting of fundraising activities and outcomes to donors, the Foundation Board, and university leadership.
• Work closely with the marketing and communications team to effectively communicate the impact of donations.

Collaboration and Partnerships:

• Collaborate with university leadership, faculty, and staff to identify funding needs and opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate partners, foundations, and other external stakeholders.
• Serve as an ambassador for the university and its Foundation, representing their interests at events, conferences, and community engagements.

Operational Management:

• Oversee the development budget, ensuring the efficient allocation of resources to maximize fundraising outcomes.
• Implement best practices in fundraising operations, including donor database management, gift processing, and reporting.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising initiatives, using data and analytics to inform decision-making.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in fundraising and development, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit setting.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts and leading successful fundraising initiatives.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with a demonstrated ability to develop and implement innovative fundraising strategies.
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices, trends, and legal regulations.
• Proficiency in donor database management and fundraising software.

Application Process: Interested candidates should attach a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to the application.

Questions, please contact Martha Stevens at mstevens@latech.edu.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Louisiana Tech is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA Employer and places a high priority on the creation of an environment supportive of ethnic minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

Posting Close Date: This position will remain open until filled.

Please Note: Applications must be completed by 11:59 p.m. on the Job Closing Date to ensure consideration.

Note to Applicant:

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications in their cover letter. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.

References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process.

This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.

As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions at the Louisiana Tech University may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.