Director of Planned Giving

Overview This is a leadership role within UMBC's Office of Institutional Advancement, responsible for managing the Planned Giving team and developing enterprise-wide strategies to secure transformational support. The Director leads in a high-growth environment, driving collaborative efforts across the centralized development team and acting as the university's subject matter expert for planned, estate, blended, and complex gifts. A primary focus of this role is the strategic re-branding, re-launching, and ongoing management of UMBC's legacy society. Responsibilities Donor Portfolio and Gift Planning Strategies Serves as the lead strategist for the development and execution of university-wide gift planning initiatives. Develops and maintains a portfolio of active donor relationships to maximize philanthropic opportunities using blended and tax-wise gift approaches. Collaborates with development officers, academic leaders, and external legal/financial advisors to execute complex gift planning strategies that align with donor intent and university priorities. Legacy Society Leadership and Program Management Leads the comprehensive re-branding and re-launching of the UMBC legacy society to increase visibility and member engagement. Manages the day-to-day operations and growth of the legacy society, ensuring proper stewardship and recognition of all planned gift donors. Provides leadership and performance management for the Gift Planning team, including hiring, training, and professional coaching. Develops comprehensive training for the broader development community to increase institutional capacity for identifying planned giving prospects. Operational Leadership and Marketing Provides leadership to key collaborative operational partnerships to ensure a seamless donor experience and optimal program production. Functions as the primary lead for operational services that enhance non-cash and special gift-giving activities. Leads the strategy for growth and retention of the planned gift donor pipeline through a comprehensive, centralized marketing strategy. Partners with Advancement Communications to facilitate effective outreach and educational materials for donors and their professional advisors. Plans and executes strategic initiatives that integrate gift planning into the overall goals of the university's fundraising campaigns.

Required Qualifications Experience:

Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in development, with at least 5 years specifically focused on planned giving or trust/estate law.

Proven Track Record:

Demonstrated success in building or significantly scaling a planned giving program within a higher education or non-profit environment.

Technical Proficiency:

Deep knowledge of IRS regulations regarding charitable contributions and expertise in using planned giving software (e.g., PG Calc, Crescendo).

Education:

Bachelor's degree required JD, CFP, or CAP® certification is highly preferred.

Candidate Profile Self-Starter:

You don't wait for a manual; you create one. You are comfortable working independently to establish new processes.

High Performer:

You are driven by metrics and the tangible impact your work has on student scholarships and faculty research.

Sophisticated Communicator:

You can translate complex financial concepts into compelling, heart-centered stories for donors.

Trusted Partner:

Build strategic relationships across campus with academic leaders to raise the profile of planned giving at UMBC and showcase the impact it can have on the future of the university.