Florida Polytechnic University - Chief Development Officer

For best consideration, complete applications should be received before March 14, 2025.

Complete information is available on the Search Profile.

Florida Polytechnic University, based in beautiful Lakeland, Florida, seeks an experienced leader in development with a proven track record of successful fundraising across diverse sources to serve as its Chief Development Officer.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Florida Polytechnic University is seeking a Chief Development Officer with proven leadership experience to oversee the Florida Polytechnic University Foundation and serve as the Foundation’s CEO. As the Chief Development Officer and CEO of the Foundation, the right candidate will work closely with the University President and Foundation Board to plan and lead fundraising initiatives, establishing very high expectations and aggressive, achievable goals. The role oversees all Foundation activities, including fundraising and managing relationships with current and prospective donors.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Development Operations

• Directs a program of fund development for the University, which achieves goals for external resource development, charitable contributions, planned giving, donor cultivation, alumni and donor records, campaign management, and resource allocation.

University Foundation

• Coordinates all major decisions regarding the Foundation with the President of the University.

Fundraising Goals

• Establishes and is accountable for fundraising and alumni development goals and objectives each year.
• Administration of an annual fund campaign and special, major, and planned gift programs.
• Administration of prospect/donor research, gift processing and records, donor cultivation, recognition and stewardship, and the comprehensive and integrated operations and systems needed to support the University.
• Creates a culture of strong collaboration with the University and operates the Foundation in lockstep with the mission, vision, guiding principles, and strategic plan of the University, and the administrative goals of the University President.

Donor Relations

• Identifies and cultivates prospective donors (individuals, corporations, and foundations).
• Provides leadership for communicating the needs of the University to donors and prospective donors. Manages personnel and develops aggressive goals for fundraising for all development officers.

Reporting

• Prepares appropriate statistical reports on all fundraising, development, and alumni activities, and presents those reports regularly (as requested) to the President.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Nine years of experience with demonstrated successes.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred. In lieu of a degree, any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.
• Five years of fundraising experience in the university, nonprofit, or corporate fundraising environment. Higher education fundraising with expertise in donor relationship management experience preferred.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising across diverse sources, including major gifts, grants, and individual donations.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills; excellent interpersonal communication skills; excellent financial management skills; and demonstrated effective personnel management and accountability experience.
• Ability to work within a culture of collaboration, respect, transparency, and harmony.
• Ability to lead and inspire a team to achieve aggressive goals; skill in providing clear direction, delegating, and removing obstacles to get work done; skill at holding self and others accountable to clearly stated commitments.
• Ability to communicate with and effectively represent the University and the Foundation to targeted audiences, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to lead a Foundation Board that actively participates and engages in meetings and fundraising activities, and brings potential donors to the University.
• Demonstrates success in building and managing relationships with and raising funds from industry, corporations, and private donors.
• Knowledge of current trends in university fundraising and capital campaigns.
• Knowledge of industry relations and current methods of fundraising from industry.
• Knowledge of prospect research and grant proposal development.
• Ability to act with honesty, integrity, and authenticity, and within the framework of the University’s guiding principles.

LAKELAND, FLORIDA

Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, Lakeland blends small-town charm with big-city conveniences. With about 120,000 residents, it offers an ideal mix of peaceful suburban life and the excitement of a lively city. Known for its stunning landscapes, Lakeland is home to several beautiful lakes, including Lake Hollingsworth, Lake Mirror, and Lake Morton. These tranquil spots provide opportunities for boating, fishing, picnicking, and outdoor exercise, with the historic Lake Mirror Promenade being a favorite for leisurely strolls and cultural events throughout the year.

Lakeland has something for everyone, including Downtown’s charming Munn Park Historic District, with its unique shops and restaurants, and the newly opened Bonnet Springs Park, an urban and natural park perfect for families and outdoor lovers. Circle B Bar Reserve offers restored wetlands and wildlife trails, and the Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a terrific spot to explore local produce, crafts, and more. For foodies, the city’s diverse dining scene offers everything from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries. Lakeland’s rich cultural scene features live performances at the Lakeland Community Theatre and the Polk Theatre, and the Imperial Symphony Orchestra brings beautiful music to the city.

For education, Polk County boasts a strong school system with 120 public schools including magnet and charter schools, nearly 30 nationally accredited workforce academies, six Florida Arts Model Schools, and 25 private schools.

With warm, sunny weather year-round, Lakeland offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and sports. The city is home to the Detroit Tigers’ spring training and hosts various other sporting events. Just a short drive away, residents can catch professional sports teams like the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), Lightning (NHL), and Buccaneers (NFL), as well as the Orlando Magic (NBA) and Orlando City Soccer Club (MLS).

Locally, you can enjoy hiking and birding at Circle B Bar Reserve, kayaking with exotic animals at Safari Wilderness Ranch, exploring trails, gardens, and museums at Bonnet Springs Park, or fishing for bass at Tenoroc Fish Management Area, one of the top lakes in the state.

Above all, Lakeland’s greatest treasure is its people. Both longtime residents and newcomers in this friendly community give the city a warm and lively vibe. From historic neighborhoods to modern developments, Lakeland’s diverse mix of living options reflects the city’s growth and charm. With its natural beauty, business opportunities, cultural richness, and modern amenities, Lakeland truly captures the essence of the Florida lifestyle, making it an ideal place to call home.