Executive Director, Foundation Relations

Strategy DevelopmentParticipate at the executive level in the Universitys fundraising activities and contribute to the formulation of priorities and policies for foundation relations. Design, implement and manage a proactive development plan focused on expanding and enhancing top level foundation partnerships by directing and coordinating activities related to obtaining multi-million-dollar foundations funding and support, including working in partnership with programs on campus that touch on these areas.Identify emerging national foundations and trends with a special emphasis on partnerships that can garner larger philanthropic commitments to support the mission and goals of the University. Develop a broad and deep understanding of current fundraising priorities across campus and of University policies relating to foundation grants. Serve as a resource to faculty and development personnel across campus on these topics.Provide analysis and make recommendations to solicit foundation gifts, which will often mean leading and/or participating in university-wide strategy sessions.FundraisingDevelop and manage a portfolio of top foundation prospects with a personal portfolio of 25 foundations and a team-wide portfolio of ~300 key foundations across 10 officers. Engage in qualification, strategy, relationship building, and closing of foundation gifts and serve on the presidents transformational gifts leadership team.Establish and track annual goals for the Foundation Relations team to increase annual foundation support by 20 to 30% within 36 months of start date.Develop highly competitive proposals for prospects in support of UTs 10-year strategic plan to become the highest impact public university. Monitor proposal deadlines, prepare and edit proposals, and manage proposal submissions.LeadershipManage the Foundation Relations team. Build strong connections with the college/school/unit affiliated officers. Supervise Foundation Relations staff in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding foundations for support of short- and long-term priorities of the University.Provide guidance and mentoring to staff to ensure productivity and career enhancement.Oversee a newly created Philanthropic Advisory Council of top foundation leaders who will convene annually on UTs campus to learn about and discuss critical issues and innovations.Relationship ManagementDevelop new relationships with appropriate foundation leaders and program officers.Provide strategic support to colleges, schools, and units across campus in sustaining and enhancing their relationships with existing foundation partners.Track and inform leadership of new trends in the foundation sector; establish close collaborative relationships with partners across campus including but not limited to University leadership, Presidents Office, Provost, Vice President for Research, Academic and Research Deans and faculty.Maintain a high-quality stewardship process for foundations. Visit with foundation boards, leaders, and/or program staff to organize campus site visits, and participating in meetings, calls, and events that advance these vital relationships.Prospect Research and Cross-Functional CollaborationAttend partnership and content relevant events to enhance UT Austins position such as conferences, scientific talks, lectures, etc.Other related functions as assigned.