Director of Advancement, University Advancement

Position Summary

Make a lasting impact through relationship-building and philanthropy at UB.

The Division of University Advancement seeks a motivated Director of Advancement to help drive philanthropic growth for strategic university priorities and special projects, including Student Life, as part of the university’s overall fundraising program. Join a collaborative, mission-driven team advancing student success, innovation, and meaningful contributions across UB.

Key responsibilities include:

Build and manage a donor portfolio by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding prospects capable of making gifts of $100,000+, including individuals in early-stage cultivation and/or with whom the university has little to no relationship.

Drive engagement and outreach through national travel and regular visits in Western New York and neighboring regions, deepening relationships and expanding support for strategic university initiatives, special projects, and overall fundraising priorities.

Collaborate with advancement leaders, faculty, and volunteers to support strategic fundraising efforts, operating plans, and events, aligning donor engagement with institutional goals.

Participate fully in division and university life by attending meetings, pursuing professional development, and fostering strong internal partnerships.

Maintain digital records and adhere to best practices for donor management and reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Demonstrate professionalism and energy in all interactions, balancing relationship-building with metrics-driven performance.

What We’re Looking For If you are a goal-oriented professional inspired by the power of philanthropy to transform lives and advance discovery, this is your opportunity to make a difference. Join a dynamic team and help shape UB’s future as a top 25 public research university.

Why UB Advancement We’re seeking a highly motivated, goal-oriented fundraising professional who excels at building meaningful relationships while driving results in a metrics-based advancement environment. Inspired by the transformative impact of higher education and energized by the historic $1 billion Boldly Buffalo campaign, University Advancement is building on this extraordinary momentum - accelerating UB’s trajectory toward becoming a top 25 public research institution. You will join a collaborative team committed to sustainable philanthropic growth through donor stewardship and strategic fundraising. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact and help shape the future of one of the nation’s leading public research universities.

If you’re seeking purposeful work, strong career growth, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference, you’ll find it here. Join a collaborative, forward-thinking team connecting donors and partners to bold ideas and transformative outcomes - #AdvancingUB starts here.

Learn more:

Our benefits , where we prioritize your well-being and success to enhance every aspect of your life.

Being a part of the University at Buffalo community.

University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree

A minimum of 5 years in a fund-development or revenue-generating role, with a demonstrated track record of increasingly responsible success in goal achievement, planning, complex relationship management, and personal solicitation of 6-figure gifts. Related experience in professional sales/marketing, financial planning/advising and other fields will be considered.

Strong problem solving and oral and written communication skills.

Technical/digital competence;

Demonstrated commitment to collaboration as well as the ability to work well both independently and collectively with a diverse team and donor/prospect constituency.

Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to listen and interact effectively with high-net-worth individuals.

Ability to travel up to 50% of the time (which includes local and regional travel) and to work evenings and on occasional weekends.

Salary Range

$80,000 - $90,000

Apply through the University at Buffalo careers site.