Senior Director of Philanthropic Engagement and Climate Partnerships

Clark University is seeking a Senior Director of Philanthropic Engagement and Climate Partnerships in Worcester, MA. This leadership role involves managing major gifts, directing fundraising for climate programs, and collaborating with university leadership. The director will oversee a team of fundraisers, set fundraising goals, and implement strategies to enhance philanthropic support for the School of Climate, Environment, and Society.
Company Description:

Founded in 1887, Clark was one of the first all-graduate institutions in the United States. Today the University is a highly-ranked, student-centered institution educating approximately 2,350 undergraduate and 1,150 graduate students to be imaginative and contributing citizens of the world and to advance the frontiers of knowledge and understanding through rigorous scholarship and creative effort. This commitment to scholarship and inquiry reflects the University's commitment to "challenge convention and change our world" and to address issues of critical importance to society. It is also reflected by Clark's many national and international distinctions, including innovation, community engagement and impact, as a top green campus, and for having a distinguished geography and international development program. Clark has also been included in the groundbreaking Colleges that Change Lives guide since it was first published in 1996.

Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a dynamic, diverse city "on the rise". The second largest city in New England, Worcester is home to 11 institutions of higher learning and is increasingly recognized for its growing healthcare and biotechnology communities, its thriving cultural scene, and as a vibrant food hub.

Job Description:

Clark University seeks a results-driven Senior Director of Philanthropic Engagement and Climate Partnerships. Reporting to the Senior Executive Director of Individual Giving, this key leadership role is responsible for managing a major gifts portfolio, directing fundraising initiatives for climate-related programs, and collaborating with university leadership to enhance philanthropic support. The Senior Director will also oversee the Advancement Leaders Program, a cohort of five fundraisers utilizing AI technology to engage donors effectively. This role will directly supervise a team of four fundraisers dedicated to donor retention, solicitation, and leadership giving.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy
• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies for the School of Climate, Environment, and Society.
• Serve as a member of the University Advancement Leadership team and as a key contributor to the university's advancement strategy, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.
• Set clear fundraising goals and performance metrics to track progress and drive results.
Major & Annual Giving Management
• Direct fundraising initiatives related to climate, environment, and sustainability programs.
• Personally manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding high-level donors.
• Work closely with faculty and leadership within the School of Climate, Environment, and Society to identify funding opportunities.
Team Leadership & Management
• Supervise and support a team of four to five fundraisers responsible for donor retention, upgrade, and solicitation:
• Oversee the Advancement Leaders Program, a cohort of fundraisers leveraging AI to qualify and engage thousands of prospects and donors.
• Provide mentorship, professional development, and strategic guidance to ensure fundraising success.
• Collaboration & University Engagement
• Partner with university leadership, faculty, and other stakeholders to advance climate-related fundraising priorities.
• Collaborate with the Senior Executive Director of Individual Giving and other advancement leaders to drive donor engagement.
• Travel regularly for donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
Requirements:
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in fundraising, with a strong preference for university or nonprofit settings.
• Proven track record of securing gifts and managing high-level donor relationships.
• Demonstrated success in managing and mentoring fundraising teams.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Strong goal orientation, with a focus on meeting and exceeding fundraising targets.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and strategic planning skills.
• Ability to travel regularly and work evenings and weekends as needed.
Additional Information:

At Clark University we believe that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds leads to a more innovative and productive work environment. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to join our team and contribute their unique ideas to help us achieve our goals.

Clark University offers a generous benefit package for full and, if applicable, part-time employees that include; paid time off, generous retirement plan, group health and dental insurance, life insurance, and tuition, along with use of many campus amenities. For a complete list of benefits for eligible employees visit here.

To review the Clark University Police Department Annual Security and Fire Safety Report visit here.

Application Instructions:

To be considered for this position, you must submit your credentials online. Create a Clark University Careers Account by clicking on the APPLY NOW button below. You will be able to upload the following documents, which are required for consideration:
• Resume
• Cover letter
See the FAQ for using our online system. Please contact us if you need assistance applying through this website.

Already have a Clark University Careers Account? Login to your account to add documents or update your account.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

A successful background check is required upon acceptance.