Director of Advancement & Engagement

TL;DR

Director of Advancement & Engagement: Manage and grow a portfolio of 150–200 high-capacity donors and prospects, designing and executing strategic cultivation and solicitation efforts for five- and six-figure gifts in support of HUC’s mission. Focus on personally soliciting and closing major gifts at the $10,000+ level, developing compelling proposals, and ensuring exceptional donor stewardship.

Location: New York Campus - New York, NY 10012 (onsite). Up to 25% travel.

Salary: $200,000 - $225,000

Company

North America’s premier institution of Jewish higher education and the center for professional leadership development within Reform Judaism.

What you will do

• Develop and implement individualized strategies for donor cultivation and solicitation, conducting 125–150 meaningful donor engagements annually.
• Personally solicit and close major gifts at the $10,000+ level, including six-figure commitments, and develop compelling proposals for institutional priorities.
• Design high-impact donor experiences and ensure exceptional stewardship to build long-term loyalty and elevate donors into leadership roles.
• Identify and qualify new prospects to expand the major gifts pipeline and maintain accurate records in the donor CRM system.
• Partner with senior leadership, faculty, and volunteer leaders, and collaborate across Advancement functions.
• Contribute to campaign strategy, long-term philanthropic planning, and serve as an ambassador within Jewish and philanthropic communities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 7+ years of progressive fundraising experience with proven success in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts.
• Experience in higher education, Jewish communal organizations, or mission-driven nonprofits strongly preferred.
• Expertise in major gift strategy and donor lifecycle management; strong executive presence and exceptional communication skills.
• High emotional intelligence, discretion, and ability to work independently in a collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with the Jewish community, particularly Reform Judaism, strongly preferred; proficiency in Microsoft Office and donor CRM systems.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive and comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision coverage, life insurance, and long-term disability.
• Retirement Savings Plan (403b), generous paid time off including national and Jewish holidays, and paid parental leave.
• Tuition remission benefits and Employee Assistance Program.
• Core values: Honesty and Integrity, Kindness and Decency, Openness and Transparency, Responsible Empowerment, Trust and Security, Diversity and Inclusion.