A cover letter is required for consideration for this position. In your cover letter, please provide examples of how your skills and experiences meet the requirements of this position. To apply for this position, please submit your cover letter and resume as one document on the University of Michigan Careers at the U site.
The Institute for Social Research (ISR) is the world's largest academic social science survey and research organization. With scholars from a wide range of disciplines, ISR acts as a national laboratory for the social sciences, advancing public understanding of human behavior through rigorous, wide-ranging research.
Our mission is to:
- Conduct high-quality social science research
- Share findings widely to inform public understanding and decision-making
- Train future generations of social scientists
The Development Director provides strategic leadership for ISR's advancement efforts. In partnership with the ISR Director and as part of the executive leadership team, this individual designs and drives a comprehensive philanthropic and engagement strategy aligned with ISR's mission. This role requires regular in-person engagement to effectively support the development team, center directors, faculty partners, and our broader community. Leading a high-performing team in fundraising, the Development Director serves as a visible ambassador for ISR, building strong relationships with donors, alumni, corporate and foundation partners, and stakeholders across the University of Michigan.
Strategic Leadership (40%)
- Lead the development team in setting measurable annual and multi-year fundraising goals (e.g., revenue growth, number of major gifts, number of stewardship activities) to maximize transformational giving.
- Serve as an internal and external ambassador by conducting presentations, events, or communications annually that showcase ISR's mission, priorities, and impact.
- Partner with the U-M Office of University Development to coordinate ISR's participation in university-wide campaigns and to co-develop joint proposals or initiatives per year.
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