About Bethlehem University/Bethlehem University Foundation Bethlehem University Foundation is the U.S. registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization entrusted with a focus to assist Bethlehem University in the Holy Land in achieving its mission. Bethlehem University is a Catholic co-educational institution in the Lasallian tradition whose mission is to provide quality higher education to the people of Palestine and to serve them in its role as a center for the advancement, sharing and use of knowledge.
The Opportunity
The Director, Donor Engagement will develop and execute a donor strategy that focuses on major, lead and planned gifts in support of Bethlehem University Foundation. Reporting to the Executive Director of the Foundation, you will be responsible for providing strategic philanthropic insight and developing and executing tailored donor strategies. You will be responsible for strategic management of a portfolio of donors to support Bethlehem University’s programs and advance Bethlehem University Foundation’s revenue goals.
Leadership Priorities for the First 12 Months
1.Build rapport with Bethlehem University Foundation and Bethlehem University colleagues while gaining familiarity with the context of the BU story, shared strategic priorities, challenges, and opportunities.
2.Build and prioritize a diverse major donor portfolio, focusing on authentic long-term relationship development and values-based alignment.
3.Develop a culture of major donor engagement, leveraging the BUF network of stakeholders, including board members, other donors, supportive associations, etc.
4.Partner with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to assess and lay potential framework for a large-scale endowment campaign.
Qualifications
- Experienced Donor Partner. Proven success in building and leading non-profit major gift programs, including securing multi-year and annual five, six and seven-figure gifts. Demonstrated success identifying and cultivating new prospects, managing, partnering, and personally soliciting major gifts, as well as guiding volunteer leaders.
- Relationship Building & Management. Track record of building effective and proactive relationships with others, internally and externally and at all levels, incorporating relationship building and partnership as fundamental to success. Demonstrated ability to explain complex concepts in a way that everyone can understand.
- Collaborator. Demonstrated ability to communicate ideas clearly - both written and verbal - for internal and external audiences. Proven collaborator who approaches all work and interactions with empathy and inclusion. Proven ability to listen and respond to develop mutual understanding and trust. Experienced in fostering an environment where different opinions and approaches can be entertained, considered, and appreciated while working as a team to find a resolution.
- Adaptable but Focused. Demonstrates a commitment to outstanding internal and external service to colleagues, partners, donors, and all those with whom we interact. Proven focus on proactive and inclusive issue resolution and continuous improvement for all systems and processes. Demonstrated flexibility amid change, being able to successfully juggle multiple deliverables, and adapting to new situations with fresh ideas or innovative approaches.
- Data and Results Driven. Has succeeded in roles with clear and concrete goals. Demonstrated experience in proactively collecting and making data-based decisions to advance efforts.
- Mission and Culture Aligned: Demonstrates awareness and support for Bethlehem University’s mission to serve Palestinian young people in the Holy Land.
- Past experience with Middle East fundraising and/or higher education environments is highly preferred.
Application Instructions
BUF has partnered with Higher Talent to assist in this recruitment. Please contact President, Mindy Cohen to share your
resume and cover letter via email at ms@highertalentinc.com.