Director of Principal Giving

Overview

The Director of Principal Giving is a senior level fundraising professional responsible for leading the Principal Giving team which oversees the major and leadership giving team while overseeing all planned giving efforts at Salem State University. This position plays a key role in securing major and planned gifts that support the university’s strategic goals. The Director will serve as a frontline fundraiser, managing their own portfolio of high-capacity donors, and ensuring the successful cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors at the major and leadership gift levels. They work closely with deans, division, board members, faculty and fellow advancement team members to plan and execute an effective major, planned and leadership giving program in support of identified university priorities. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Advancement (AVP), this role is integral to advancing the university’s philanthropic mission and increasing revenue from significant donors. 

Salem State University is a place where your career can flourish. We embrace and celebrate the uniqueness of every employee, creating an inclusive and supportive environment where you can do your best work. Our commitment to civic engagement ensures that your contributions will positively impact both the university and the community. As an Hispanic and minority-serving institution, we are dedicated to championing social justice. Join us and be part of a transformative community that enriches lives across the Commonwealth.

***DO NOT APPLY ON MASSCAREERS.*** Applications submitted on MassCareers will not be considered.***

Applicants must apply on the Salem State Career site to be considered.

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree required
2. Minimum 5–7 years of progressively responsible front-line fundraising experience preferably in higher education
3. Proven success in securing major gifts and managing planned giving programs (e.g., bequests, charitable trusts, donor-advised funds)
4. Experience with donor cultivation, stewardship, and annual giving campaigns
5. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies
6. Skilled in donor research, data analysis, and performance tracking

Preferred Qualifications

1. Masters degree in a related field such as philanthropy, nonprofit management, public administration, or business
2. CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) or other relevant professional certifications
3. Experience leading large capital or endowment campaigns
4. Experience working with high-net-worth donors and nonprofit boards
5. Proficiency in advanced CRM tools (such as Raiser's Edge), fundraising analytics, and reporting platforms
6. Experience with digital fundraising, peer-to-peer campaigns, and social media strategies
7. Ability to work effectively with internal teams, leadership, and external stakeholders

Working Location

This is a hybrid position in Salem, MA with some on-campus, in-person responsibilities, which may require occasional work on evenings evenings and weekends.

Application Instructions

• ***DO NOT APPLY ON MASSCAREERS.*** Applications submitted on MassCareers will not be considered.***
• Applicants must apply on the Salem State Career site to be considered.
• Please apply online and attach resume and cover letter. 
• Employment is contingent upon a completed background and CORI check satisfactory to the university.
• This position is not eligible for H1B visa sponsorship.

Eeo Statement

The university considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition or any other characteristic protected by law.

Ada Statement

Salem State University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities. For accommodation information or requests please email eo-hr@salemstate.edu.

Recruitment Agencies

Salem State University does not partner with or accept candidates from outside staffing agencies. All hiring is managed directly by our internal Talent Acquisition team.