Development Officer, School of Education & University Advancement

Location : Main Campus - Homewood, AL

Job Type: Staff Full Time

Job Number: FY2600496

Division: Advancement & Marketing for Staff

Department: STA-Major Gifts

Opening Date: 08/21/2025

FLSA: Exempt

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Description

The Development Officer for School of Education & University Advancement is responsible for seeking and securing philanthropic support from Samford alumni and friends through a donor-centric approach. This position plays a key role in building and strengthening relationships to advance the mission of the university.

The individual in this role will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward alumni and friends, both those associated with the Samford's Orlean Beeson School of Education and beyond, with a focus on securing major and leadership-level gifts. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to fostering meaningful engagement at Samford. This position requires a proactive, collaborative professional who can effectively communicate the impact of philanthropy and work across departments to achieve fundraising goals.

Performance is measured by university-specific and industry-aligned metrics, including visits, contacts, proposals and secured gifts.

Job Duties

Collaborate as a part of a dynamic development team to advance shared fundraising priorities for the university.

Identify major gift prospects by maintaining individual prospect activity, performing prospect research, tracking goals, and analyzing data in the University's database which is currently Blackbaud's Fundraiser Performance Management.

Partner with Advancement Services and leadership within University Advancement and the division to identify major gift prospects.

Manage a dynamic donor portfolio to secure major gifts of $25,000+.

Conduct in-person visits to qualify or disqualify major gift prospects, determine donor interests that align with current priorities, provide stewardship and solicit gifts.

Steward and maintain strong, ongoing relationships with alumni and friends to encourage continued giving and deep engagement.

Identify and refer, estate, trust and planned giving prospects to the Office of Gift and Estate Planning.

Facilitate purposeful interactions between university and academic leadership and key constituents.

Have a knowledge and clear understanding of the work and programs at Samford University including, but not limited to, those in the Orlean Beeson School of Education.

Represent University Advancement at events as needed to engage and steward donors and prospects.

A commitment to the Christian mission of Samford University.

Maintain a professional image consistent with the division.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required.

3 years of relevant professional experience.

Technical skills necessary to utilize computer systems and databases to complete routine work.

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

5 years of relevant professional experience.

Experience in higher education or non-profit fundraising.

Demonstrated track record securing major gifts.

Ability to lift up to 15 pounds

Ability to travel and work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Remaining stationary or standing for extended periods of time

Staring at a computer screen for extended periods of time

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

To learn more details, visit our

01

Do you have a Bachelor's degree or higher?

Yes

No

02

Do you have at least 3 years of relevant experience for this role?

Yes

No

Required Question