Senior Philanthropic Advisor

James Madison University is seeking a seasoned and successful fundraiser to join the Principal Giving team in University Advancement as Senior Philanthropic Advisor. This critical role will play a pivotal part in building transformative relationships and securing principal-level gifts from a growing donor pool.

• Manage and continue to build a portfolio of 50-75 relationships with a focus on refreshing principal donor relationships from the last campaign and proactively identifying and engaging new high net worth donors independently and in partnership with our Prospect Development team and volunteers/donors.
• Close gifts of $1M+ with a donor-centric approach that meets the needs and priorities of JMU.
• Develop, implement, and refine customized strategies to advance each prospective donor's meaningful connection to JMU's priorities, documenting and updating these plans, and leading to principal-level philanthropic investment.
• Provide insight and expertise on complex gift opportunities, including but not limited to blending deferred and outright commitments, DAFs, real estate and other real property, and business interests.
• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and gift solicitations in the university's CRM.

• Bachelor's degree.
• Significant experience with donor/client relationships and success in meeting and exceeding targets.
• Experience working with high-net-worth individuals and families.
• Familiarity in leveraging DAFs and other gift assets such as real estate.
• Exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effectiveness as both individual contributor and team member.
• Demonstrated use of moves management and metrics to ensure accountability.
• Experience with using deferred (planned) giving techniques and tools to facilitate transformative philanthropy.
• Experience engaging, cultivating, and stewarding new stakeholders and converting into long-term partnerships.
• Proven ability to collaborate with colleagues for shared wins.
• Excellent judgement and ability to discern levels of risk and rewards.
• Strong skill in uncovering connections, networks, and interests while maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality.

James Madison University is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff. The university is committed to expanding diversity, fostering equity and inclusion, and supporting superlative teaching and scholarship.