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Job Description

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF FOUNDATION RELATIONS, Resource Development, to lead and manage a centralized operation responsible for proactively seeking new funding opportunities and building partnerships with foundations and funding arms of philanthropic donors resulting in grants to support a wide range of needs in research and education.  Will oversee, manage, and motivate a highly functioning team of frontline professionals and operations staff; track and inform leadership of new trends in the foundation sector; establish close cooperative relationships with other RD and Institute offices; and establish and track annual goals for foundation giving.  

REQUIRED:  bachelor's degree; ten years’ related fundraising experience, preferably in an academic setting focusing on private foundations; four years’ experience supervising staff, setting goals, and managing performance; comprehensive knowledge of tax laws/practices affecting foundations and their associated funding vehicles; track record of directly soliciting major gifts from individuals or via their foundations; senior leadership experience; excellent interpersonal and communication (written, verbal, listening, and presentation); experience improving effectiveness through building and sustaining a work environment that advances diversity and inclusion, celebrates achievements, and encourages teamwork; collaborative and collegial leadership style; and proficiency with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Zoom.  Must be able to work closely with senior academics and administrators, discuss complex institutional initiatives with prospective funders, and deal effectively with potentially large benefactors; gain the confidence and trust of others; and define a vision, develop strategic plans, and successfully lead a team toward fulfilling goals.  PREFERRED: advanced degree; comfort with scientific material; understanding of higher education issues/politics/decision-making; support for MIT’s mission and values; and knowledge of fundraising communication, including experience with Ellucian Advance Web.  Job #22707-13

This position is hybrid, with a combination of on-campus and remote work.

Must be willing and able to occasionally travel domestically and internationally and attend evening and/or weekend activities, meetings, events, seminars, and workshops.

MIT has partnered with Isaacson, Miller for this search. All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. In addition to applying via the MIT website with a cover letter and CV/resume, applicants are asked to submit the same through the Isaacson, Miller candidate portal. Nominations and inquiries can be made through the same portal.

5/5/23