Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement is seeking an experienced and dynamic Associate Vice President of Principal Giving to lead strategic efforts in securing principal-level gifts that fuel innovation, student success, and institutional growth. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of philanthropy by cultivating deep relationships with high-net-worth donors and aligning their passions with the Wichita State University’s bold priorities. You’ll work closely with senior leadership, including the President & CEO and SVP of Development, and lead a high-performing team dedicated to excellence in donor engagement and stewardship. The job duties for this position include:

1. Principal Giving & Fundraising

• Implement a strategic plan to grow principal gift revenue ($250,000+), including personal and team solicitations.
• Partner with Data Sciences to identify and prioritize high-potential donors.
• Collaborate with the donor engagement team to create strategies and ensure appropriate documentation of activity in the CRM system for principal giving donors and prospects.

2. Team Development/Management:
   • Provide vision and leadership to the principal giving team, ensuring alignment with WSUFAE and WSU priorities.
   • Recruit, train, and mentor high-performing team of principal giving officers and support staff through the establishment and monitoring of team goals, ensuring accountability and consistent progress towards fundraising targets.
   • Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation within the principal giving team and across WSUFAE.

3. Strategic Collaboration
   • Collaborate with the SVP of Development and other leaders to support capital campaigns and targeted fundraising efforts.
   • Serve as a key thought partner on fundraising strategy and principal gift portfolio management.

4. Portfolio Management & Donor Relations
   • Maintain a portfolio of high-net-worth prospects, conducting regular cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship check-ins to build deep relationships to align donor interests with university needs.
   • Coordinate strategic engagement opportunities with university leaders to support donor relations.
   • Ensure high-quality donor experiences through tailored communications, events, and recognition.

5. Stewardship and Engagement:
   • Partner with the Office of Alumni & Stakeholder Engagement to align stewardship and recognition efforts.
   • Ensure consistency in messaging, gratitude, and follow-up for all principal gift donors.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Proven leadership experience in major and/or principal giving, with a record of securing principal gifts of six figures and more
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust and credibility among high-net-worth individuals and institutional leaders
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities and meet challenging and changing deadlines
• Ability to develop and execute sophisticated strategies for securing transformational gifts
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to use data to inform decision-making
• Commitment to the WSUFAE core values of Integrity, Service, Excellence and Collaboration
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends

Key Metrics for Success

• Total Principal gift revenue
• Growth in donor engagement and average gift size
• Conversion of major donors into principal donors
• Progress towards team and individual performance goals
• Number of successful engagements involving the President and CEO, university president, board members, and other senior leaders in cultivation or solicitation efforts

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a focus on collaboration and professional development
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• High degree of professionalism, ethical sensitivity, and discretion; ability to maintain a commitment to confidentiality; good judgment and proven responsible decision-making skills
• Strong organizational, project management, and analytical skills with the ability to initiate, analyze, monitor, evaluate and advance strategic plans
• Ability to lead groups and projects as well as function as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues from a variety of disciplines
• Enthusiasm for WSUFAE’s mission and values, with a deep commitment to advancing its priorities through philanthropy

Physical Requirements

• Frequent and sudden movements from sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking
• Frequent standing or sitting for prolonged periods
• Occasional climbing of stairs
• Occasional lifting up to 40 pounds
• Frequent exposure to outdoors and hot and inclement weather
• Frequent ability to travel (fly/drive/train or other public transportation – day and overnight)

Preferred Requirements and Skills

• Graduate degree from an accredited institution
• Knowledge of Wichita State University and a commitment to higher education.

Whether you are just starting your career or are an experienced professional, we invite you to submit your resume for future opportunities with us. Position Overview: This job posting serves as a general application for individuals interested in future roles across various departments and teams within WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. While we may not have a specific position that fits what you are looking for at this moment, we are continuously growing and always looking for new team members who bring unique skills and perspectives. If you are interested in being considered for any future opportunities, please submit your resume and indicate your areas of interest and expertise. We will keep your information on file and contact you when a relevant position becomes available. Who Should Apply: We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and with a variety of skill sets. Ideal applicants should possess:

• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• A passion for education and giving back
• A desire to contribute to a positive work culture

How to Apply: Please submit your resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your skills, areas of interest, and why you would be a great fit for our team. Be sure to include any relevant experience, certifications, or projects that demonstrate your qualifications. WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement is an equal opportunity employer and strives to provide a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how you can contribute to our future success!