Community Development Director Jobs in Fairfield, CT

Quinnipiac University invites applications for the position of Director of Development, Campaign Giving. This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic, relationship-driven fundraising leader to play a pivotal role in advancing the University's ambitious comprehensive campaign and philanthropic vision.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Development and Campaign Management, the Director of Development, Campaign Giving will help shape and execute campaign fundraising strategies that inspire transformational philanthropy in support of Quinnipiac's highest institutional priorities. Working collaboratively with University leadership, deans, faculty, staff, and volunteer leaders, this individual will align donor passions with opportunities that advance student scholarships, faculty excellence, academic innovation, capital initiatives, and the continued growth and success of the University.

The successful candidate will serve as a trusted partner to campus leaders, translating strategic priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities while helping to achieve the University's comprehensive campaign goals and strengthen a culture of philanthropy across the Quinnipiac community

Quinnipiac University is a private, coeducational institution located 90 minutes north of New York City and two hours from Boston. The university currently has an enrollment of 9,700 students in more than 100-degree programs through its Schools of Business, Communications, Computing & Engineering, Education, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Nursing and the College of Arts & Sciences. Our 20 Division I teams have achieved remarkable success, boasting national and conference titles - including a 2023 NCAA national championship win in men's ice hockey, a trip to the Sweet 16 for our women's basketball team and NCAA Tournament appearances by many of our programs. The Quinnipiac University Poll is nationally recognized as a leader in public opinion research, and the university is consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review. The Wall Street Journal ranked Quinnipiac #51 among the best colleges in the nation, and second in Connecticut, for our exceptional graduation rate, salary impact, learning facilities, career preparation and learning opportunities.

The university is in the midst of program expansion and renewal for both traditional and adult learners, the development of innovative strategic partnerships, and recently opened South Quad with three state-of-the-art buildings.

As Quinnipiac grows, the university remains guided by the core values that define our community and shapes the experience of every student and employee.

• We are fiercely committed to ensuring every Bobcat thrives. We are a lifelong partner for every learner.
• We passionately care about our community. Everyone should feel welcome and valued.
• We boldly shape our university's future. We will forge a path of impact together.
  These values are the foundation of who we are and reflect the Quinnipiac spirit found across our campuses. For more information, please visit qu.edu. Connect with Quinnipiac on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and X.

Funding Alignment: Collaborating closely with university leadership/administration, deans, faculty, staff to translate compelling philanthropic funding opportunities

Principal & Major Gifts: Managing a high-level portfolio of alumni, parents, and trustees capable of making major and transformative gift commitments

Volunteer Board Management: Recruiting, organizing, and staffing powerful campaign steering committees, alumni boards, etc. and how they can support the campaign goals

Pipeline Infrastructure: Assisting and advising prospect research, gift planning (endowments and planned giving), and data analytics teams to identify next-generation donors supporting the campaign goals

Stewardship: Ensuring donors are recognized and continuously engaged to sustain a long-term tradition of philanthropic support

Strategic Event Production & Fundraising Engagement: Provide strategic guidance and support for the planning and execution of high-profile advancement and fundraising events, partnering closely with University Events. Advise on development-focused event strategy for initiatives such as galas, comprehensive campaign launches, building dedications, scholarship luncheons, presidential dinners, donor recognition programs, and regional engagement events, ensuring alignment with fundraising objectives, donor cultivation, and stewardship goals

Principal & Major Gift Cultivation: Partner with frontline fundraisers to design customized, high-touch event experiences that advance specific principal and major gift prospects through the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship cycles as it supports the campaign goals

Leadership Briefings & Bios: Assist in the draft detailed briefing materials, strategic talking points, timelines, and donor bios for the University President, Vice President of Advancement, Deans, and Board of Trustees members attending development events

Data-Driven Evaluation: Leverage the institutional CRM to track guest touchpoints, analyze attendance trends, monitor event budgets, and measure the direct ROI of events against campaign fundraising milestones

Cross-Campus Collaboration: Coordinate seamlessly with internal campus partners, including University Communications, catering services, facilities, student ambassadors, and academic departments to ensure cohesive branding and execution

Availability: Flexibility to travel and work frequent evenings and weekends for donor visits and campaign events, and/or help staff major institutional milestones, events, or regional donor tours

• Bachelor's degree is required
• Master's degree preferred

• 7 to 10+ years of progressive fundraising experience, specifically in a higher education or complex nonprofit setting
• Proven track record of planning, executing, and closing major multi-year capital or comprehensive university campaigns
• Documented success in personally securing major and principal gifts
• Extensive experience identifying, cultivating, and stewarding a portfolio of 75 to 150 high-net-worth alumni, parents, and trustees
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds

TO APPLY:
Applications must be submitted electronically and include a resume, a cover letter detailing how your experience aligns with the position requirements, demonstrated commitment to intentional leadership that values individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and contact information for three references.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time faculty and staff which includes tuition remission and a culture that is inclusive and driven by excellence.

Quinnipiac University is considering only those applicants who have valid authorization to work in the United States. Quinnipiac University does not sponsor employment based visas for this position.

Quinnipiac University is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful community.