Human Resources

Director of Leadership Gifts


The Director of Leadership Gifts is responsible for securing significant philanthropic commitments for Hendrix College.  The successful candidate will work principally to secure major and planned gifts, but commitments to the Hendrix Annual Fund are important as well.  The position reports to the Vice President for Development.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Cultivates and solicits five- to six-figure (and larger) philanthropic commitments from key alumni and friends to support the mission and goals of the College.  Knows the ‘Hendrix story’ (historically and present), stays abreast of trends in development and higher education, and adjusts approach and strategy accordingly.
  • Maintains a rigorous schedule of contacts with alumni and friends (at least 12-15 scheduled visits per month); possesses a compelling one-on-one presence; creates moves management plans for prospects; asks for resources; and conducts meticulous follow up.
  • Works closely with colleagues in Advancement and other College representatives (e.g. athletics, faculty, Office of the Chaplain) to build and significantly expand positive fundraising relationships.  Inspires confidence and sustains mutually-beneficial relationships with all internal and external partners.
  • Develops and writes highly persuasive proposals for alumni and friends that support the College’s strategic direction; secures information for proposals from campus partners and involves partners as appropriate when asks are presented.  Works to overcome objections and close outstanding proposals. 
  • Effectively stewards alumni and friends who have made gifts.  Demonstrates the value of the Hendrix-donor relationship at every step in the gifting process, especially after a gift is made.  Understands the difference between ‘thank you’ and ‘stewardship.’
  • Takes initiative, perseveres in the midst of challenge; focuses on goals and outcomes but executes the process well and demonstrates integrity at all times.  Committed to personal mode of operation consistent with the ideals of the College and the higher education advancement profession.  

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS:  Bachelor’s degree plus at least five years of fundraising or related experience required.  Travel required.  Campaign experience in major or planned gifts and liberal arts background are pluses.  Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to create persuasive proposals; demonstrated ability to self-motivate; and ability to build rapport quickly and effectively required.  Master’s degree preferred.  Occasional evening and weekend work necessary.


APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS:  Submit applications and nominations to Hendrix College Human Resources, 1600 Washington Avenue, Conway, AR  72032 or by e-mail to hr@hendrix.edu.  A complete application must include a cover letter, resume or CV, and a list of three professional references.  Electronic submissions are encouraged.

Expected date of employment:  January 1, 2014

Hendrix College adheres to the principle of equal educational and employment opportunity without regard to age, race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or national origin. Further, the College is committed to the maintenance of an atmosphere of civility and respect for all students, faculty, and staff.