Under the direction of the Executive Director of Gift and Estate Planning in Institutional Advancement, The Regional Director of Planned Giving position focuses on cultivating donor relationships that will lead to present and future support to the College, primarily in the form of planned gifts.

Must be proficient in identifying and cultivating new and existing Gift and Estate Planning donors. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of planned giving vehicles, experience in technical gift closure strategies, and a proven ability to engage with donors in meaningful ways. Possesses extensive people, verbal, and writing skills, accompanied by the ability to communicate the College’s mission effectively. High integrity and devotion to donor intent and donor satisfaction are a must.

1. Plan and execute donor initiatives that lead to support for the College, primarily in the form of tax-advantaged planned gifts, bequest designations, major gifts, and annual gifts.

2. Desire and ability to work with other front-line fundraising officers in structuring gift language, designation, and other technical nuances related to planned gifts for successful donor outcomes.

3. Provide staffing and/or technical support for GEP events and other Hillsdale events as needed; give GEP presentation as needed.

4. Either have an existing knowledge of tax law and how it impacts and enhances donor giving, and the ability to provide an income stream for the donor or possess an aptitude to be trained on such matters.

5. Travel throughout the given region and across the country to attend high-profile College events and to meet and maintain donor relationships.

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Finance, Economics, Marketing, or Accounting. A minimum of 5 years of experience in planned giving, with a deep understanding of charitable gift vehicles such as CGAs, CRTs, bequests, and other planned giving options.

1. Maintain a neat appearance and a positive attitude.

2. Ability to adapt to various personalities and work well with others.

3. Ability to convey the Mission of the College in a positive and supportive manner.

4. Possess excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical details to both donors and colleagues.

5. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

6. Ability to express ideas effectively.

7. Ability to keep calm and remain personable under pressure.

8. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

9. Ability to adapt to a flexible work environment; specifically comfortable with virtual and in- person meetings.

10. Possess excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

11. Ability to maintain confidentiality.

12. Ability to build and maintain trust with donors and colleagues. Possess a proven track record of working with high-net-worth donors and collaborating with other fundraising officers in the successful closure of technical gifts.

13. Strong analytical and project management skills.

14. Self-motivated, goal-oriented, positive attitude.

Be a good representative of Hillsdale College to promote the liberal arts, the College’s original Articles of Association, and operating principles stated in the Staff Code of Commitment. The Mission Statement should be considered in all aspects of the position. The teaching of Christian faith shall remain a conspicuous aim of the College.