August 15th, 2025
University of Pittsburgh
Director of Development, School of Law
( Pennsylvania | On-site )
Job Description
Position salary range: 100000 - 130000 Yearly Salary
Director of Development, School of Law
PAE-University Development - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (25004046)
The Division of Philanthropic & Alumni Engagement (PAE) builds lasting relationships with donors, alumni, and stakeholders to advance Pitt’s mission in education, research, and healthcare. We are seeking a strategic and collaborative fundraising professional to serve as Director of Development for the School of Law.
The Division of Philanthropic & Alumni Engagement (PAE) at the University of Pittsburgh is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships with donors, alumni, and stakeholders, supporting the University's mission in education, research, and healthcare. We invite you to become a pivotal part of our team as the Director of Development, School of Law.
In this role, you will serve as the integral part within PAE's University Development department, reporting to the AVC, IGSC.
Key Responsibilities
Lead all fundraising and alumni engagement efforts for the School of Law
Partner with the Dean and law school leadership to advance strategic development priorities
Develop and execute major gift strategies ($100K+), including identification, qualification, cultivation, and solicitation
Maintain personal contact with donors and prospects; engage faculty, volunteers, and staff as appropriate
Create compelling cases for support aligned with the school’s mission and goals
Manage the School of Law’s Board of Visitors, including presentations and engagement strategy
Coordinate with central development and alumni relations teams to ensure integrated efforts
Oversee development communications, including:
Annual Giving and Day of Giving materials
Donor proposals and solicitations
Stewardship reports and correspondence
Supervise two staff members and contribute to team development
Utilize Affinaquest CRM for donor tracking and relationship management
Ensure alignment of programs with university-wide development frameworks
Qualifications
Proven success in securing major gifts ($100K+)
Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills
Ability to translate academic priorities into donor engagement strategies
Experience in higher education fundraising preferred
High ethical standards and sound judgment in donor relations
Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings/weekends
Why Join Us?
Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in supporting the University's mission.
Collaborative Environment: Work within a supportive, innovative, and dynamic team.
Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Ready to make a difference? Learn more about PAE and apply today.
Join us in shaping the future of education, research, and healthcare at the University of Pittsburgh!
Job Summary
Oversees development of a program, plans, and activities to create and execute a comprehensive development plan achieving new and recurring contributions to a school, foundation, program, and/or group. Manages a portfolio of major gift donors and strategically builds fundraising prospects. Assists leadership in facilitating a comprehensive communications plan and with development strategies.
Essential Functions
Develop and implement fundraising strategies focused on major gifts, including qualification, cultivation, and solicitation of prospects
Maintain direct contact with donors and prospects, engaging the Dean, faculty, volunteers, and staff as needed
Collaborate with the Dean to manage the School of Law’s Board of Visitors, including preparing and delivering presentations on alumni relations and fundraising progress
Supervise a team of two staff members, providing guidance and support to advance development goals
Research, write, edit, and oversee the creation of persuasive communications, including:
Annual Giving and Day of Giving materials
Donor solicitations and proposals
Stewardship correspondence and development-related content
Design and implement donor relations and stewardship initiatives tailored to the School of Law’s supporters
Contribute to the strategic alumni engagement plan in coordination with school leadership and central alumni relations
Physical Effort
Little physical effort required. Duties are primarily sedentary. May be required to move objects up to 25 pounds occasionally.
Assignment Category Full-time regular
Job Classification Staff.Director - Development
Job Family Philanthropy & Engagement
Job Sub-Family Major & Principal Gifts
Campus Pittsburgh
Minimum Education Level Required Bachelor's Degree
Minimum Years of Experience Required 7
Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience? Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.
Additional details about Required Licensure/Certification Driver's License Track record of major gift fundraising (qualification to closure) Interpersonal + oral + written communication skills Excellent project management skills Having a JD is a plus
Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Work Arrangement Hybrid: Combination of On-Campus and Remote work as determined by the department.
Hiring Range $100,000-$130,000 Annually
Relocation Offered No
Visa Sponsorship Provided No
Background Check For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check
Child Protection Clearances Not Applicable
Required Documents Resume, Cover Letter, Other (review job description for more details)
Optional Documents Not Applicable