Description
Hampton University is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and relationship-centered fundraising professional to serve as Director of Philanthropy. This position will play a critical leadership role in driving philanthropic support for Hampton University by strengthening donor engagement and advancing institutional priorities.
The Director of Philanthropy will manage a diverse portfolio of alumni, corporations, foundations, churches, and community stakeholders. This position requires a strategic, self-motivated fundraiser who excels at building authentic relationships, growing a strong donor pipeline, and cultivating philanthropic investments that fuel Hampton University’s mission and long-term impact.
Examples of Duties
Fundraising & Portfolio Management
• Manage a comprehensive portfolio of major gift prospects—including alumni, corporations, foundations, and churches—advancing donors through the full cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship cycle.
• Build, assess, and strengthen a sustainable donor pipeline, identifying and qualifying new prospects while deepening relationships with existing supporters.
• Clearly articulate Hampton University’s fundraising priorities and strategic opportunities to donors and partners.
Engagement, Outreach & Visibility
• Strengthen Hampton’s presence within the HBCU, higher education, corporate, faith-based, and philanthropic communities in the region.
• Represent the University at events, conferences, alumni gatherings, and community engagements.
Campaign & Program Support
• Support all components of Hampton University’s fundraising strategy including major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, special events, and future capital campaign activities.
• Prepare donor briefings, proposals, gift strategies, and follow-up reports in collaboration with the Advancement team.
• Collaborate closely with University leadership, academic units, and internal advancement colleagues to align donor interests with institutional priorities.
Data Management & Operational Excellence
• Maintain accurate and timely donor records, contact reports, and pipeline activity within the University’s CRM.
• Support the improvement of administrative, operational, and stewardship processes within the Advancement division.
• Uphold the University’s Code of Conduct, ensuring discretion, confidentiality, and professionalism in all matters.
Typical Qualifications
• Excellent knowledge of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Proven success in cultivating donor leads, creating gift strategies, and securing philanthropic commitments across major gifts, annual giving, and other strategic fundraising areas.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM/database systems, and virtual engagement tools.
• High level of emotional intelligence, maturity, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Supplemental Information
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of progressive fundraising experience in university advancement or the nonprofit sector, with demonstrated success in prospect identification, strategic cultivation, and major or planned gift solicitation.
• Ability to clearly articulate and champion Hampton University’s mission and fundraising priorities.
• Must adhere to all University policies and procedures aligned with the Code of Conduct.
• Flexibility to travel for donor meetings, events, and University engagements.
