Executive Director of Gift Planning

University of Massachusetts Amherst

We believe in improving the human condition through advances in science and technology, lifting the human spirit through the arts and humanities, and cultivating public discourse that is governed by reason. The University of Massachusetts, Amherst is one of the nation's top public universities. We provide a dynamic, hands-on education that values creativity and we strive to be at the forefront of groundbreaking research that crosses departments and disciplines. Our students and faculty are unconventional thinkers who enjoy tackling hard problems and are driven to be a force for good in the world.

Located in the town of Amherst, our campus sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. UMass Amherst offers 109 undergraduate programs, five associates, 77 masters and 48 doctoral programs in nine schools and colleges. We have approximately 250,000 living alumni around the world.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst Foundation is seeking an Executive Director of Gift Planning to oversee the development and management of a national program designed to identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit and steward prospective and current planned giving donors. This position will report to the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development.

What you'll be doing:

• Manage the Gift Planning staff; mentor Development staff in the area of planned giving, provide training as appropriate, and collaborate on the planned giving activities of the frontline fundraising team.
• Evaluate the current planned giving program in order to plan, design and implement the best methods and approaches.
• You develop and oversee the implementation of a comprehensive program to market planned gifts (including bequests, annuities, trusts and gifts of real estate) to UMass Amherst constituents.
• You actively maintain a portfolio of planned giving donors and donor prospects.
• Lead and grow the university’s planned giving society, the William Smith Clarke Society; in collaboration with the donor relations, annual giving and major gifts staff develop goals and plans for the optimal stewardship of members.
• Collaborating with Development staff, you provide technical support to donors, their advisors, other outside allied professionals, University staff and faculty, and UMass system foundation staff on the structuring, benefits and implications of various planned giving instruments.

Qualifications:

• Five or more years of experience in planned or major gifts or related legal / financial planning experience.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Understanding of financial / estate planning and deferred giving. Experience with major and planned giving solicitation a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to relate to and inspire the trust and confidence of donors and their legal and financial advisors as well as colleagues.
• Excellent administrative and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to handle confidential materials with discretion.
• Ability to motivate and lead staff and volunteers.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel regularly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a higher education environment.
• Knowledge of prospect management systems.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

To apply, please go to: https://grnh.se/531e2d881

The UMass Amherst Foundation is a growing organization that looks for team members to grow with it. We offer a generous benefits package, a diverse and inclusive culture, and a dedication to career development.

UMass Amherst has a rich history in support of social justice and in efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion on our campus. The University of Massachusetts Amherst Foundation is committed to employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.