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Senior Director of Gift Planning (34871)

Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL

  1. Salary Not stated by the employer
  2. Employer Northern Illinois University
  3. Location Dekalb, IL
  4. Workplace On site
  5. Role Director
  6. Posted Aug 12, 2026
  7. Reference pa-95321
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Senior Director of Gift Planning (34871) at Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL
The Impact You’ll Make
Reporting to the Executive Director of Philanthropy and partnering closely with colleagues across the NIU Foundation and University, the Senior Director of Gift Planning serves as a key leader in advancing the institution’s philanthropic mission through strategic gift planning and donor engagement by:
  • Providing strategic leadership for a comprehensive and collaborative gift planning program, driving growth, innovation, and integration across the Foundation’s fundraising efforts.
  • Developing and executing an ambitious, data-informed strategy to expand planned giving opportunities, increase donor participation, and generate long-term philanthropic support for the university’s highest priorities.
  • Serving as the Foundation’s principal gift planning expert and trusted advisor, consulting with Foundation colleagues, university leaders, faculty, staff, donors, and professional advisors on charitable planning strategies and complex gift opportunities.
  • Overseeing critical operational functions, including gift documentation, estate administration, grant administration, policy compliance, and the stewardship and realization of planned gifts, ensuring exceptional donor service and fiduciary responsibility.
  • Partnering with donors and their families to create meaningful philanthropic legacies, aligning their values and aspirations with opportunities that transform the future of Northern Illinois University.
  • Building strong partnerships across the university and within the professional advisor community, fostering collaboration that enhances donor engagement, broadens awareness of gift planning opportunities, and advances institutional fundraising success.
The Skills You Bring to the Table
We are seeking a self-motivated, metrics-driven professional who thrives in a collaborative, matrixed environment. To succeed in this role, you will bring:

  • Proven Fundraising Excellence: Demonstrated success in progressive development roles, with a strong track record of securing six- and seven-figure planned, major, and blended gifts in a higher education setting.
  • Advanced Gift Planning Expertise: Deep knowledge of charitable gift planning vehicles, estate planning principles, tax-advantaged giving strategies, and gift documentation. Ability to translate complex financial and philanthropic concepts into donor-centered solutions that align personal values with institutional priorities.
  • A Collaborative Approach: Exceptional ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and influence outcomes across a diverse range of stakeholders, including donors, professional advisors, senior administrators, faculty, volunteers, and Foundation colleagues. A team-oriented leader who contributes meaningfully to division-wide success.
  • Strategic & Analytical Thinking: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information, evaluate opportunities, and develop effective strategies that advance ambitious fundraising goals and long-term institutional priorities.
  • Drive & Adaptability: Self-motivated and results-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic environment. Demonstrates initiative, sound judgment, and flexibility while managing multiple priorities and responding effectively to evolving opportunities and challenges.
  • Exceptional Communication and Relationship-Building Skills: Outstanding written, presentation, and interpersonal communication abilities. Skilled at engaging diverse audiences, facilitating meaningful conversations about philanthropy, and inspiring confidence among donors, professional advisors, and institutional leaders.
  • Commitment to Stewardship and Service: Demonstrated ability to cultivate authentic, long-term donor relationships through thoughtful engagement, exceptional service, and a commitment to honoring donor intent.
  • Professional Credibility and Executive Presence: Possesses the confidence, judgment, and professionalism necessary to represent the Foundation with distinction in high-level donor interactions, professional advisor meetings, campus leadership discussions, and public forums.
  • Ethical Leadership and Integrity: Unwavering commitment to the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, professionalism, and fiduciary responsibility, with a strong understanding of the principles that guide charitable fundraising and gift planning.
Number of employees reporting directly to this position, including student employees:1-3
Apply on Northern Illinois University's site You apply directly with the employer.

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