Job Summary
The Assistant Dean of Development serves as the Chief Advancement Officer for the College of Letters and Science. Under the direction of the Associate Vice Chancellor for School and Unit Programs with dotted line reporting to the Dean of College of Letters and Science, the Assistant Dean manages a large and complex fundraising program with multiple constituencies and programs, through a large professional staff, including both fundraising and related administrative support staff. This position reviews and approves recommendations for operational planning and control and is responsible for highly impactful decisions that influence the overall success of the department, division, or campus and/or medical center. As an individual fundraiser, the Assistant Dean manages a personal portfolio of high-capacity individuals and/or corporations and foundations.
This position is individually and unit metric-driven and is expected to raise gift dollar amounts at the most impactful level as established through an annual business planning process and aligned with the assigned portfolio as an individual and collectively for the unit. This position is focused on developing and managing new and fostering established donor relationships. Guided by a "donor centric" approach, the incumbent will strategically solicit gifts and steward existing ones using various communication methods, including in person, video, texting, phone, social media and virtual visits.
This position requires expert judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions, and works independently, collaboratively, and collegially as part of a large, matrix organization.
Apply By Date: January 7, 2026
Initial Application Review date is December 19th, 2026. Interviews and recruiting process may occur at any time. Position will remain open until filled
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Advanced knowledge of all aspects of fundraising, donor and public relations, including principles, concepts, techniques and procedures. Advanced knowledge of and experience with the design and implementation of identification, cultivation and solicitation strategies and techniques. Demonstrated success soliciting and securing the highest-level philanthropic gifts. Successful track record developing strategic relationships with donors.
- Advanced skills to conceive, design, engage in collaborative strategic planning, implement and evaluate effective fundraising programs.
- Advanced managerial and team building skills to effectively oversee a large team of fundraisers and administrative staff.
- Expert political acumen, to establish and maintain excellent working relationships at all organizational levels and with outside constituencies, including donors, volunteers, and subject matter experts, to develop collaborative working relationships needed to accomplish organizational goals.
- Demonstrated expert experience conceiving, writing and editing fundraising presentations, case statements, and proposals and for support of program priorities. Expert written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Recent experience with and demonstrated success in funding endowed chairs and professorships is strongly preferred.
Awareness, knowledge, and skill in applying inclusion to one's work. A profound belief in the value of a safe workforce and a commitment to achieve this goal through collaboration and team building, working cooperatively with a large group of department and campus constituencies.
Key Responsibilities
- 60% - Fundraising
- 40% - Management
Department Overview
The College of Letters and Science at UC Davis is remarkable in its breadth and depth across the arts, humanities, social sciences, and physical and mathematical sciences. Our greatest strength lies not only in the breadth of our disciplines, but in our expertise in each, and in the passion of our faculty, staff and students to facilitate interdisciplinary exploration. We foster collaborations that enable us to tackle society's most complex challenges and to empower students to lead meaningful, engaged, productive lives. The Development Office in the College of Letters and Science, in alignment with leadership from the Deans and central DEVAR, manages all fund raising and donor relations for the College. We engage external constituencies in major gift private philanthropy and provide leadership in the management of all private contributions and the identification, cultivation, and stewardship of donors.
Development & Alumni Relations (DEVAR) provides leadership in building enduring public trust, understanding, and support for UC Davis and its mission of teaching, research, and public service. DEVAR provides leadership, coordination and support services to help the university meet its mission of research, teaching and service by building philanthropic support and executing approved fundraising programs that support the university's highest priorities and initiatives.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Departmental Budgeted Salary Range: $215,000-$225,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
- Full Fundraising Mgr 3 Salary or Pay Range: $157700.00 - $338900.00/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Monthly
- Salary Grade: Grade 29
- UC Job Title: FUNDRAISING MGR 3
- UC Job Code: 000466
- Number of Positions: 1
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00pm
- Location: 1450 Drew Ave Ste 200 (1450DREW), Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work). This position is based in Davis, CA.
- H1-B Eligible: Applicants must be permanently authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
- Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
- Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
- Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Work occasional evenings and weekends to attend fundraising events, commencement, and to meet operational needs as required. Provide own reliable transportation to off-site events and meetings. Ability to travel in and out of California.
Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks