At the University of Montana Foundation, the lives we change will change the world. We inspire donors to bolster UM's mission of providing an accessible, affordable, and world-class education. The UM Foundation is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the people and culture of the University we serve, fostering an environment allowing us to inspire each other to our best work. We act with integrity and respect, and work to create a team where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. Why Work for Us?

Retirement Planning:

403(b) employer contribution of 11%, no employee match required!

Flexible Work Arrangement:

Opportunity for a hybrid remote work arrangement each week Generous Time off

Benefits:

Team members accrue four weeks of vacation and 12 days of sick leave per year, with an additional 11 days of holiday leave

Family Support:

Paid parental leave for new parents

Health and Wellness:

Medical, dental, vision, wellness program, and short-term and long-term disability pay protection benefits

Career Advancement:

Professional development opportunities

Competitive Pay:

Candidates can request the starting pay range by emailing humanresources@supportum.org About the Opportunity The University of Montana Foundation seeks an experienced, relationship-driven fundraising professional to serve as Director of Development for the College of Health and College of Science. This is a frontline major gift fundraising position focused on building relationships with alumni and donors and inspiring philanthropic gifts to enhance education, scientific discovery, and health innovation. The College of Health advances health and well-being through education, research, and service, preparing future healthcare leaders while addressing complex health challenges facing communities across Montana and beyond. The College of Science is home to outstanding faculty whose work expands knowledge, drives discovery, and leverages Montana's diverse landscapes for hands-on experiential learning. Together, these colleges offer donors opportunities to invest in transformative research, student success, and initiatives that improve lives and strengthen our communities. Working closely with the deans and other academic partners, the Director will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors capable of making significant philanthropic investments. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic and intellectually engaging environment, translating complex research, educational, and health initiatives into compelling opportunities for donor impact. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping donors connect their passions with opportunities that create lasting change. Success requires initiative, curiosity, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate a complex university environment while advancing multiple priorities and relationships simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, developing individualized strategies to cultivate, solicit, and steward philanthropic investments. Conduct a high volume of meaningful donor visits and engagement activities, building strong relationships that lead to transformational donations. Maintain a robust fundraising pipeline and consistently achieve performance metrics related to meetings, proposals, solicitations, and dollars raised. Partner with the deans, faculty, and other campus partners to develop compelling funding opportunities and align donor interests with institutional priorities. Collaborate with Foundation colleagues across Development, Prospect Research, Stewardship, Marketing and Communications, and Gift Administration to maximize donor engagement and fundraising success.

Ideal Candidate:

Has demonstrated success building relationships that lead to philanthropic investments Quickly learns and synthesizes complex information and can confidently discuss research, academic programs, and emerging opportunities with diverse audiences Takes initiative, identifies opportunities and advances projects independently while collaborating effectively across teams. Possesses exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust among donors, faculty, and colleagues Ability to make decisions in ambiguous situations, exercise good judgment based on information and analysis in a fast-paced, dynamic, deadline-driven environment in an organized and professional manner Flexibility, curiosity, and strategic thinking, with an enthusiasm for mission-driven fundraising.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university Five or more years of development experience preferably in higher education, healthcare, the sciences, or a similar complex field Proficient use of Microsoft Suite of applications and database software application Accessibility and Equal Opportunity The University of Montana Foundation is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation to participate in the recruitment process at the University of Montana Foundation, contact humanresources@supportum.org. All hiring decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Additional Information All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check. Priority Application Date Sunday, October 4th . Complete applications received by this date will be guaranteed consideration. If you do not meet all the qualifications of the position, you are still encouraged to apply.