Job Objective

Reporting to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement, the Director of Grants Development, Government and Foundation Relations & Prospect Research is responsible for building strategic relationships with individuals and institutions who can financially benefit the university at a major-giving level. The Director will strategically pursue funding opportunities that align with Roberts Wesleyan University’s mission and strategic goals, cultivating relationships with local, regional, and national foundations, and building relationships with local and state officials who can support our initiatives and assisting with prospect research and creation of profiles. The Director also will stay informed of statewide government activities to support key campus priority initiatives. Key goals include 20 visits annually, 20 proposals totaling over $2.5M annually, $1M raised in any given cycle annually, and a closure rate of 25%.

Job Responsibilities

1. Identify prospects and develop strategies for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gifts from both existing and new grant, foundation, and government sources:
   1. Research and build relationships with local and regional foundations, local and state politicians, and providing research on potential and current major donors. 
   2. Meet with foundation representatives when possible and appropriate.
   3. Arrange campus visits for foundation representatives. 
   4. Develop strategies for Board engagement with foundations. 
   5. Steward gifts from foundations and grantors by complying with all grant reporting as required by each constituent
2. Develop and direct a scalable grants process for the university:
   1. Oversee campus-wide grants strategy and activities, in coordination with RWU Vice President for Academic Affairs/Chief Academic Officer, RWU Chief Financial Officer, and NES Dean/President.
   2. Align grant-seeking endeavors with institutional fundraising priorities.
   3. Meet with faculty, staff, and administrators to discuss projects appropriate for foundation/grant funding and develop strategies for seeking support.
   4. Provide resources to faculty and staff interested in pursuing grants. 
   5. Assist with the writing and editing of grant proposals and reporting processes when awarded.
3. Proactively Monitor Federal, State, and County Activities:
   1. Liaise with our local counsel/lobbyist and other networks (i.e., CICU Government Relations and FLREDC) to be aware of funding sources that may be appropriate for the University and to be aware of legislation or government action that may impact the University. 
   2. Represent Roberts at local political events, as necessary and when appropriate. 
   3. Arrange campus visits for government officials. 

Approved Salary for this position is: $74,500.00/annually

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree and 7+ years related experience with understanding of fundraising. Ability to follow strict deadlines and manage multiple projects at once. Experience in grant writing. Skilled at working with people at all levels within an organization.  Self-motivated and able to adapt quickly to changing conditions.  Strong communication, organization, and MS Office skills essential.