Description
The University of Maine System (UMS) is seeking a visionary and highly accomplished Director of Philanthropy and Foundation Relations to join our leadership team. This pivotal role will be instrumental in helping UMS secure substantial philanthropic investments from foundations and other organizations, directly fueling the mission and goals of UMS, its universities, and the School of Law. We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven person with an exceptional track record of cultivating high-level relationships.
This position reports to the UMS Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, with a dotted-line to the Chancellor.
The hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This is a two-year, fixed-length position with an expectation of travel approximately 50% of the time.
Salary: We offer a competitive annual salary between $120,000 - $129,000, based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
Benefits: The University of Maine System offers a highly competitive benefits package that includes (but is not limited to):
13 paid holidays plus earned vacation and sick time
Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
Short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance
Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance
Tuition waiver program for employees and their dependents (spouse, domestic partner, and dependent children)
403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.
Director of Philanthropy and Foundation Relations job description.
Requirements
Required:
Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum of 8 years of experience in foundation or corporate fundraising or funding, grant writing, or related field.
Proven track record of securing significant grant funding from foundations, and/or of evaluating and supporting grantmaking in the private sector.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling proposals and reports.
Strong research and analytical skills.
Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with foundation representatives and senior UMS leaders.
Proficiency in database management, grant tracking systems, and AI tools.
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Experience with CRM software, grant management software, and AI tools.
Ability to travel as this will be approximately 50% of the time.
Preferred:
Graduate degree.
Knowledge of the higher education sector and R1 institutions.
Experience with major gifts fundraising.
Experience working in private philanthropy organizations.
