Senior Philanthropic Advisor

Director of Development
Associate Director of Development (Major... Senior Philanthropic Advisor
Employer
Marquette University
Location
Florida
Salary
Competitive
Posted Date
May 11, 2026
categories
(This will open in a new window from which you will be automatically redirected to an external site after 5 seconds) Job Details
The Senior Philanthropic Advisor secures philanthropic support for university priorities by leading highly customized identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for a focused portfolio of principal gift prospects capable of making commitments of $1 million or more. Portfolio development is anticipated to be predominantly in the state of Florida and the Advisor will work collaboratively with Advancement leadership, volunteers, and university partners to align donor interests with institutional priorities.
This position may be regionally based within Florida and will require regular travel back to campus in Milwaukee, WI.
1. Portfolio Management
Develop, manage, and advance a focused portfolio of principal gift prospects and donors, each with the capacity to contribute gifts of $1 million or more, using a strategic, relationship‑driven approach. Achieve annual performance expectations of securing a minimum of $5.5 million in new philanthropic commitments by managing a portfolio of up to 40 principal gift prospects, executing an annual fundraising business plan with defined goals, strategies, metrics, and timelines aligned with university priorities and campaign objectives, while ensuring deep engagement, forward movement, and ongoing pipeline development. Proactively identify, qualify, and cultivate new principal gift prospects through research, referrals, and collaboration with Advancement colleagues, volunteers, and university leadership. Conduct frequent, high‑quality, face‑to‑face visits with principal gift prospects and donors—targeting 15-20 meaningful contacts per month—designed to deepen engagement and move prospects toward philanthropic commitments. Meet regularly with the Assistant Vice President for Principal Gifts and Planned Giving and collaborate closely with members of the Advancement team to develop, review, and refine individualized strategies and action plans; track and report progress toward goals for all assigned prospects. Lead and manage the principal gift solicitation process, including maintaining a comprehensive understanding of university priorities and funding needs; developing tailored solicitation strategies and materials; coordinating and leading strategy sessions; preparing detailed briefing materials; and making personal, face‑to‑face solicitations when appropriate. Maintain consistent, appropriate, and donor‑centered contact with prospects and donors; document all interactions and activity accurately and in a timely manner in the University Advancement prospect management system.
2. Meeting Attendance and UA Representation
Represent the university at campus, regional, and national events, including volunteer meetings and cultivation activities, which may occur during evenings and weekends. Actively participate in Advancement activities, including monthly staff meetings, prospect tracking and portfolio review meetings, committee meetings, and other related activities. Travel extensively, averaging approximately two weeks per month, as required to effectively manage a portfolio and support university objectives. Manage an annual operating budget. Staff, oversee, and supervise projects or initiatives as assigned, including cross‑functional efforts to support principal gift fundraising.