Working Title:        Director of Development, University of Minnesota Extension

Classification:      AD Manager 2 â“ Development Admin (9362DV)

Appointment:        Full-time, academic administrative (P/A), annually renewable

Location:              Coffey Hall, St Paul Campus

Salary Range:        $125,000-$145,000 depending on educ/quals/experience

Apply By:               July 2, 2025 

About the Position

University of Minnesota Extension and the University of Minnesota Foundation (UMF) collaborate to develop and implement strategic fundraising initiatives in support of Extensionâ™s mission and programs. The Director of Development provides leadership for all aspects of fund development for Extension, combining high-level strategy with hands-on execution.

This position reports to the Dean of Extension and works in close partnership with the Foundationâ™s designated liaison. The Director collaborates with faculty, educators, staff, and collegiate development teams across the University. This position also supervises a team of three staff members.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Leadership and Strategy (70%)

• Serve as the primary lead for major and planned giving initiatives for University of Minnesota Extension.
• Increase fundraising activity and donor revenue to support Extensionâ™s core and emerging programs.
• Cultivate and sustain relationships with individuals, corporations, foundations, and other external partners to identify new giving opportunities.
• Set annual fundraising goals and design strategies for securing major, planned, and corporate/foundation gifts.
• Collaborate with Extension and UMF communications teams to enhance donor messaging, storytelling, and brand alignment.
• Lead the planning and execution of capital campaign strategies on behalf of Extension.
• Lead with a donor-centered, relationship-focused approach that aligns with the values and processes of both Extension and the Foundation.
• Track and report on fundraising progress, including solicitation outcomes, portfolio activity, and performance metrics aligned with University expectations.

Team Leadership and Advancement Operations (25%)

Oversee departmental operations, including fundraising programs, communications, and administrative systems that support strategic goals.

• Inspire and engage volunteers, committee members, alumni, partner organizations, and donors in the fundraising mission.
• Manage and support a high-performing team, including coaching and training staff in effective development practices.
• Implement systems to evaluate fundraising success and communicate impact to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage the Extension Development department budget.
• Serve as a member of Extensionâ™s Dean Leadership Council.

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

• Support special initiatives such as time-limited campaigns or milestone events.
• Partner with marketing, communications, or program teams on initiatives like impact reporting and donor storytelling.
• Represent Extension at community events, donor engagements, or networking functions, including those that arise with short notice.

Required:

• Bachelorâ™s degree from an accredited institution.
• At least eight (8) years of experience in fundraising, development, or a related field (e.g., marketing, sales, public relations, financial advising), with demonstrated success in relationship-building and gift solicitation.
• Experience with youth development or 4-H related fundraising.
• Experience managing a departmental or program budget.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace tools.
• Ability to drive frequently across Minnesota and stay overnight as needed; must maintain a valid driverâ™s license, reliable transportation, and appropriate insurance.
• Ability to work from an assigned Extension office and maintain consistent connectivity when working remotely. When not in the assigned office location, employees must be reachable with a number that will be published in the Extension staff directory.
• Ability to conduct work in many environments that include various weather, building, terrain, and temperature conditions. 
• Flexibility to accommodate evening and weekend work and overnight stays.

Preferred:

• Previous experience working within a University Extension system.
• Experience supervising and managing development teams or leading fundraising programs.
• Capital campaign planning or management experience.
• Strategic planning experience within a mission-driven organization.
• Experience collaborating with advisory boards or volunteer councils.

This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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