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Senior Director of Advancement Services

Winston Salem State University
Commensurate with education and expereince
United States, North Carolina, Winston-Salem
601 South Martin Luther King Junior Drive (Show on map)
Dec 31, 2024
Senior Director of Advancement Services
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.

Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.

Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.

Winston Salem State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran and National Guard.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at OHR@wssu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834
Position Details
Classification Information


Position Classification Title University Program Specialist III
FLSA Exempt
Position Class 89612
Position Overview


Position Summary
Winston-Salem State University ( WSSU) invites applications for the Senior Director of Advancement Services, a pivotal role in driving our fundraising efforts and enhancing donor engagement. This dynamic leader will oversee the management of our fundraising database and prospect management system while providing strategic direction for all advancement operations, including gift processing, donor relations, and stewardship initiatives.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep commitment to WSSU's mission of providing equitable, transformative education and driving positive outcomes for our students and community. With a focus on operational excellence and innovation, you will develop data-driven strategies to enhance our fundraising capabilities and cultivate lasting relationships with donors.
Join us in advancing WSSU's strategic goals while making a meaningful impact in the lives of our students. If you are a collaborative and results-oriented leader with a passion for higher education and philanthropy, we encourage you to apply and be part of our mission to unleash the genius in every student.
Position Information


Position Number 074695
Working Position Title Senior Director of Advancement Services
Building and Room No.
Blair Hall Suite 311
Appointment Type Permanent Full-Time
If Time Limited. No
Appointment Length. 12 Months
Requirements and Preferences


Position required to work during periods of adverse weather or other emergencies Not Mandatory
Normal Work Schedule
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday
Department Required Skills
To ensure the success of the Advancement Services unit at Winston-Salem State University ( WSSU), the department requires the following key skills:


  1. Data Management and Analysis

    • Expertise in managing fundraising databases (such as Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or other CRM systems).
    • Ability to analyze donor data and trends to support strategic decision-making.
    • High proficiency in maintaining data integrity, ensuring accuracy in records, and generating management reports.




  2. Gift Processing and Compliance

    • Strong knowledge of gift processing procedures and regulations, including IRS guidelines for charitable contributions.
    • Ability to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, policies, and procedures for handling donations.



  3. Prospect Research and Management

    • Skills in identifying, researching, and managing prospective donors.
    • Proficiency in developing prospect pipelines and moves management strategies to support fundraising goals.



  4. Donor Relations and Stewardship

    • Strong understanding of stewardship best practices, including donor acknowledgment, recognition, and impact reporting.
    • Ability to design and implement personalized stewardship plans that align with donor expectations and university priorities.



  5. Operational Efficiency and Process Improvement

    • Expertise in process optimization, automating workflows, and ensuring scalability of advancement operations.
    • Experience with strategic planning and improving operational efficiencies within fundraising units.



  6. Financial and Budget Management
    • Competence in handling financial data related to fundraising, such as tracking donations, managing fund allocations, and budgeting for advancement activities.


  7. Communication and Reporting

    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to prepare reports, present data, and effectively engage stakeholders.
    • Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights for leadership and other teams.



  8. Project Management

    • Strong project management skills to oversee multiple concurrent initiatives, ensuring deadlines are met and resources are effectively allocated.
    • Ability to work collaboratively across departments to achieve shared objectives.



  9. Technological Proficiency

    • High proficiency with donor management software, databases, and reporting tools.
    • Familiarity with emerging technologies that enhance donor engagement, such as digital stewardship platforms and virtual event tools.


  10. Attention to Detail and Accuracy


  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail in managing donor data, processing gifts, and preparing reports.
  • Strong organizational skills to ensure consistency in data management and documentation.

These skills are essential for ensuring that the Advancement Services unit operates efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with WSSU's strategic goals.
Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education


  1. Years of Experience


    • Minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in advancement services, development, or a related field within higher education or a nonprofit organization.
    • Proven track record in managing key operational functions such as gift processing, donor database management, prospect research, and donor relations.




  2. Education


    • Bachelor's degree required in business administration, nonprofit management, information systems, or a related field.

    • Master's degree preferred in nonprofit management, business administration, higher education administration, or a related discipline.



  3. Preferred Skills


    • Data Management Expertise: Advanced proficiency in managing donor databases (such as Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or other CRM systems) with a strong understanding of data integrity and security best practices.

    • Leadership and Team Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage teams effectively, with strong interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across departments.

    • Gift Processing and Compliance: Strong knowledge of fundraising principles, gift administration, and IRS guidelines related to charitable giving.

    • Prospect Research and Moves Management: Expertise in identifying, researching, and tracking major gift prospects, as well as implementing moves management systems to enhance donor engagement.

    • Operational Efficiency: Experience with process optimization, including automating workflows, improving donor data management systems, and increasing the scalability of advancement operations.

    • Stewardship Best Practices: Deep understanding of donor recognition and stewardship strategies, including personalized engagement plans and impact reporting.

    • Financial Management: Strong skills in budget management, tracking donations, and ensuring proper allocation of resources in alignment with institutional goals.

    • Project Management: Strong project management skills, including experience overseeing multiple initiatives, ensuring deadlines are met, and aligning projects with strategic priorities.

    • Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively engage stakeholders and present complex information in a clear and concise manner.



  4. Training and Certifications


    • Certifications in fundraising management or nonprofit leadership (such as CFRE, Certified Fund Raising Executive) are preferred but not required.

    • Advanced training in donor database systems (Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar platforms) and data analytics.
    • Ongoing professional development and training in fundraising best practices, donor stewardship, and advancement services.



The ideal candidate will combine extensive technical expertise in advancement operations with strategic leadership skills to drive WSSU's fundraising success and contribute to the institution's long-term financial sustainability.
Required License or Certification

  • No specific licenses are required for this position.

  • Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification or equivalent is preferred but not mandatory.

  • Advanced certification or training in fundraising database management systems (such as Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or other CRM platforms) is preferred.
  • Relevant project management certifications (such as PMP, Project Management Professional) are an asset but not required.


These certifications demonstrate advanced proficiency and commitment to best practices in the advancement and fundraising field.
Valid US Driver's License Yes
Commercial Driver's License Required No
Physical Required No
List any other medical/drug tests required
Posting Details
Posting Details


Internal Posting Only No
Time Limited Position No
Appointment Length
12 Months
Salary Commensurate with education and expereince
Open Date 11/21/2024
Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions Summary
Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.

Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.

Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.

Winston Salem State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran and National Guard.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at OHR@wssu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).




  1. How did you hear about this employment opportunity?

    • Public Job Posting
    • Internal Job Posting
    • Agency Referral
    • Advertisement/Publication
    • Personal Referral
    • Website
    • Other




Applicant Document
Required Documents

  1. Resume
  2. Cover Letter


Optional Documents

  1. Unofficial Transcripts
  2. Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214)
  3. Unofficial Transcript
  4. References List

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