Assistant Director of Principal Gifts Strategy

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

University Development's purpose is to support the mission of the university by raising private resources to enhance financial support for students, faculty, programs, and facilities. University Development provides leadership and centralized services to all development offices throughout the University, serving as a focal point for annual giving, application development and IT support; campaign management; constituent programs; corporate and foundation relations; donor relations; gift planning; gift services; industry relations; marketing/communications; parents giving; principal gifts; prospect management, research and analytics; regional programs; scholarships and student aid; talent management; university events; and volunteer engagement.

Carolina Development is proud of its donor-centered philosophy, pursuing activities that always respect the interests and intentions of the donor as well as the University. The organization's collaborative nature is a critical component to fulfilling our mission of raising private funds to benefit the university.

Location, Location, Location
Want to live in Chapel Hill? If so, we have tons of perks to offer you. Discounts and access to many UNC-CH athletics, Performing Arts, Gym memberships and many more on campus and local community opportunities along with a perks program that provides employees with over 800 local deals.
Want to live outside of Chapel Hill but still in the area? You have a choice of smaller communities, cities, or even suburbs in areas like Raleigh and Durham. Both living experiences offer a multitude of advantages designed to fit your needs and still enjoy the perks offered by UNC-CH.

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This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

The Assistant Director of Principal Gifts Strategy plays a critical role in advancing the university's most significant philanthropic priorities by supporting the development and execution of principal gift strategies for donors and prospects capable of making commitments of $5M or more. This position partners closely with senior advancement leadership, development officers, deans, and faculty to manage complex, high-impact fundraising initiatives from conception through solicitation and stewardship.

The Assistant Director of Principal Gifts Strategy ensures alignment across stakeholders, drives progress on key prospect engagement strategies, and facilitates the successful cultivation and solicitation of the institution's most impactful donors. Responsibilities include: coordinating prospect strategy sessions, monitoring engagement plans and fundraising opportunities, supporting the development of compelling proposals, analyzing pipeline and progress to goals, and serving as team database integrity lead.

Minimum of a bachelor's degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with related experience. For positions with responsibility for direct solicitation of gifts and funds, a minimum of 1 year of professional-level, direct solicitation/fundraising experience is required.

2-4 years of experience in project management, advancement, development operations, or a related field. Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders. Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

4-6 years of experience of experience in project management, advancement, development operations, or a related field. Experience in higher education advancement or nonprofit fundraising. Familiarity with principal gifts or major gifts fundraising. Experience working with senior leaders and high-net-worth individuals. Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Blackbaud, Salesforce), database management, and data analysis tools. Demonstrated sound judgment and the ability to take initiative and work independently.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.