Director of Development

Working Title

Director of Development

Posting Number

NFE03218P

Department

DSU-Institutional Advancement

Physical Location of Position (City)

Madison

Posting Text

Dakota State University is seeking a relationship-driven and results-oriented Director of Development to join the DSU Foundation and Institutional Advancement team. This position is responsible for building relationships and securing philanthropic support for Dakota State University through the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors.

Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of current and prospective donors through identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Conduct meaningful in-person and virtual donor visits.
• Build relationships with alumni, individuals, businesses, and other philanthropic partners.
• Personally solicit major and leadership gifts, multi-year commitments, endowed gifts, and other philanthropic support.
• Prepare correspondence, proposals, briefing materials, and other donor communications.
• Maintain accurate and timely donor contact reports, moves, proposals, and strategies in Raiser’s Edge
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to assigned development staff.
• Participate in prospect strategy meetings and assist in developing campaigns, major gift initiatives, corporate partnerships, and other fundraising priorities.
• Develop and implement meaningful stewardship strategies for assigned donors.
• Participate in Foundation, University, alumni, athletic, and community events that provide opportunities to cultivate and steward donors.
• Travel as necessary to meet with donors and prospects.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or a related field is required.
• Previous fundraising, development, sales, business development, or relationship management experience.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to listen effectively and develop meaningful connections.
• Ability to confidently engage prospective donors and ask for philanthropic support to advance the university’s mission and fundraising goals.
• Willingness to travel as needed to meet with donors, attend events, and represent the university.
• Participate in occasional evening and weekend activities, including fundraising and alumni engagement events.
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits:

• Flexible benefits package – health, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, hospital indemnity insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, health reimbursement account.
• South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive 6% fully matched contributions from SDRS and are vested after three years of service.
• Paid time off – full time 12-month employees earn 15 days per year of annual leave and 14 days of sick leave per year. In addition, employees receive 11 federal paid holidays.
• Reduced tuition for education.
• Professional liability coverage
• Paid family leave

How to Apply:

DSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. Please submit a cover letter, resume, transcript, and a list of at least three professional references.

For questions concerning the position, contact Alicia Entringer at [email protected].

Applications will begin to be reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Posting Date

10/13/2026

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

First Consideration Date

Advertised Salary

NFE Pay Grade 10S: $75,000 - $85,000

Duration of the Term

12 months

If Other, describe duration

Appointment Percent

100%

Work Hours

8:00 am to 5:00 PM 40 hrs. per week minimum (including evenings and weekends)

Typical Hours Worked Per Week

Appointment Type

Regular

Faculty Status

No

Scope of Search

External (includes Internal)

If internal, define scope of search

This position requires

Travel, Overnight stays, Weekends/Holidays, Valid Drivers License

If other, please indicate

Department Description and Cultural Expectations

In addition to the exciting professional opportunities at Dakota State University, employees will have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of Madison, South Dakota. Nestled in the heart of the state, Madison offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, creating an ideal environment for work-life balance.

The city boasts a range of recreational activities, from picturesque parks to outdoor events, fostering a sense of community engagement and well-being. Madison’s scenic landscapes and proximity to nearby lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it be fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.

Madison’s location within South Dakota provides easy access to larger cities, cultural events, and regional attractions. Madison is only a short 50 minute drive from South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

DSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and DSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing DSU[email protected].

E-Verify, EOE.