Assistant Director of Iron Dukes, Major Gifts

Be Bold.

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of a major gifts portfolio and play a key role in securing transformational philanthropic support for Duke Athletics. You will work strategically, creatively, and collaboratively to engage donors and align their passions with the priorities of Duke’s varsity programs.

What You’ll Do:

• Manage an active portfolio of major gifts prospects with the goal of securing six‑ and seven‑figure gifts to support Duke Athletics. Annual activity and fundraising goals will be established in consultation with the Director of Major Gifts / Iron Dukes.

• Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized prospect strategies using contact reports, trip reports, and ongoing analysis.

• Identify, qualify, and cultivate new prospects while managing donor correspondence and engagement activities.

• Partner closely with Athletics and University Development colleagues to coordinate donor communication and solicitation strategies.

• Serve as the Major Gifts liaison for assigned varsity programs, developing targeted fundraising strategies aligned with program priorities.

• Participate in development travel and engage with donors at athletic events, including evenings and weekends, as part of a flexible, non‑traditional work schedule.

• Perform other related duties in support of Athletics Development as needed.

Choose Duke.

At Duke, you’ll be part of a world‑class institution where philanthropy fuels opportunity, innovation, and student‑athlete success. We offer a dynamic and diverse university environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact on one of the nation’s premier athletics programs.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree (required); Master’s degree (preferred).

• Minimum of three years of experience in fundraising, development, or athletic development.

• High ethical standards and impeccable personal integrity.

• Exceptional relationship‑building skills with donors, volunteers, and colleagues.

• Strong understanding of major gift fundraising principles and donor motivations.

• Self‑motivation, creativity, and enthusiasm for advancing Duke Athletics.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative, and diverse university setting.