The Executive Director, Principal Prospects Strategy reporting to the AVP of Development will serve as chief strategist and pipeline manager for principal giving and will develop and implement a sophisticated and programmatic approach to principal giving at OHIO. The Executive Director, Principal Prospects Strategy is responsible for working with some of the university’s highest rated prospects and donors. This position will be responsible for securing and stewarding restricted and unrestricted gifts from individuals and families believed capable of making $1 million and above gifts in support of Ohio University’s institutional priorities and to work with university leadership to further develop prospect relationships with Ohio University. This individual will create connections and support the development of new and established relationships with top-tier prospects/donors. The incumbent will synthesize research and information to present persuasive rationale for cultivation/solicitation strategies; and oversee proposal preparation, projects, and programs for securing principal gifts throughout the Advancement enterprise. This position will be responsible for: - Managing a portfolio of high potential individual prospects through identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship cycles. - Forging relationships with a diverse population that will lead to seven-figure gift solicitations and secured gifts. - Creating and implementing thoughtful, multi-step plans that deepen relationships with principal level prospects and donors for the next comprehensive campaign. - Traveling to visit prospects is necessary, and often in tandem with the University President, Vice President for Advancement, other Advancement/ University Leadership as needed. - Acting as fundraising advisor to Ohio University stakeholders (University leadership, faculty and staff, Advancement staff, board members, and key volunteers) as defined by the supervisor to create alignment and consensus among key those stakeholders regarding solicitation strategies Position Profile Identifies sources of funding. Directs the management of individual giving programs, trusts, estates, gift planning, corporate and foundation relations, prospect research and donor relations and stewardship. Cultivates relationships with alumni, donors, foundations, and corporations to support the University’s mission. Ensures the University has the resources necessary for growth and engages the community to advance its long-term goals. Level Summary Regularly serves as a technical leader, expert, or program manager for complex functions or initiatives that require deep subject-matter knowledge. Significantly impacts the department by directly contributing to its performance and success. Supervisory Responsibilities Provides leadership to projects or initiatives. May have a limited number of direct reports. Fiscal Responsibilities May be responsible for budget for projects or initiatives. Problem Solving Leads problem-solving efforts across various challenges. Independence of Action Operates with high autonomy and is trusted to make decisions. Communication and Collaboration Frequently collaborates cross-functionally and represents the team in meetings with internal and external stakeholders. Influences decision-making. Physical Requirements This role is primarily desk-based and involves extensive use of desktop computers. Occasionally, the job may require travel to attend meetings and programs. Minimum Qualifications Requires a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 8 or more years of related professional experience, or equivalent education and experience. Preferred Qualifications Minimum of 8 years of experience in higher education advancement, development, or fundraising. Demonstrated experience working with higher education leadership to meet fundraising goals Demonstrated ability and willingness to travel as needed. Department Development Pay Rate Target hiring range for this role is $95,101 to $128,385 and the final offer will be commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience in relation to the minimum qualifications for the position. Total Compensation Estimator (For Full-Time Benefits Eligible Employees) Discover the full value of joining Ohio University by clicking this link: Our Total Compensation Estimator shows your offer package in dollars: salary plus university paid benefits including health coverage, retirement contributions, paid time off, tuition benefits, and more. See details on what we offer in one place and compare different options for retirement and insurance. Estimates are informational only; exact coverage is determined by eligibility policies and official plan documents. Pay Grade 21 Pay Range $95,101.00-$163,086.00 FLSA Status Exempt Job Category Administrative at-will appointment Employment Type full-time regular Job Family Development & Inst. Advancement Job Sub Family Development Job Level IC 4 Job Open Date 05/26/2026 Posting End Date 06/10/2026 Planning Unit Vice President for University Advancement Work Schedule Standard working hours are Monday – Friday,8:00 A – 5:00 P, May be based in either the Dublin or Athens office, with the expectation of being on the Athens campus on a regular basis and as needed and as requested by the supervisor. Months 12 month Campus Athens, Dublin Expected hours worked per week 40.0 Expected duration of assignment indefinite

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