Director of Philanthropy (San Francisco / Hybrid) at Gladstone Land

Job description

Category: Administration Lab/Area: Philanthropy Description: Help Accelerate Scientific Discovery At Gladstone Institutes, we believe science has the power to transform human health. As an independent, nonprofit biomedical research organization affiliated with UCSF, Gladstone brings together world-renowned scientists to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in medicine, including heart disease, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in biomedical research. We are seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and relationship-driven Director of Philanthropy & Special Initiatives to join our growing Philanthropy team. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned fundraising professional to build meaningful partnerships with visionary philanthropists and help advance groundbreaking scientific discoveries that improve lives around the world. The Opportunity The Director of Philanthropy & Special Initiatives will play a critical role in advancing Gladstone's mission by developing and managing a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects and donors. Working closely with Gladstone's President, Vice President of Philanthropy, scientific leadership, Trustees, Foundation Board members, and key volunteers, this individual will design and execute sophisticated fundraising strategies that inspire transformational philanthropic investment. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a highly collaborative environment, enjoys translating complex scientific concepts into compelling donor opportunities, and is energized by building long-term relationships that drive impact. What You Will Do: Lead Strategic Fundraising Efforts Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major and principal gift prospects. Manage an active portfolio of 100+ high-capacity donors and prospective donors. Secure significant philanthropic support for Gladstone's scientific programs, strategic initiatives, and institutional priorities. Partner with leadership to create customized engagement plans and meaningful donor experiences. Advance Special Initiatives Lead fundraising efforts related to strategic institutional priorities, disease-focused initiatives, and emerging scientific opportunities. Collaborate with scientists and institutional leaders to shape compelling funding opportunities and campaign strategies. Serve as a strategic thought partner on initiatives that advance Gladstone's long-term growth and impact. Partner with Institutional Leadership Serve as a trusted advisor to Gladstone's President and Vice President of Philanthropy on donor strategy and engagement. Support faculty, Trustees, Foundation Board members, and volunteer leaders in their fundraising activities. Prepare briefing materials, donor proposals, stewardship reports, and other high-impact communications. Strengthen Team Success Mentor and support members of the Philanthropy team. Help foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and fundraising excellence. Provide leadership and continuity during the Vice President's absence. What You will Bring: Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience. Eight or more years of successful fundraising experience, including major gifts, principal gifts, comprehensive campaigns, planned giving, or related advancement work. Demonstrated success securing significant philanthropic investments from individual donors. Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Experience developing fundraising strategies for sophisticated donor audiences. Ability to build trusted relationships with donors, scientists, executives, board members, and volunteers. Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. What is Preferred: Experience in higher education, academic medicine, healthcare, biomedical research, or a mission-driven nonprofit organization. Familiarity with scien