Executive Director of Development, Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Florida International University (FIU) is a prestigious Top 50, preeminent public research university located in the vibrant global city of Miami. With a student population of approximately 55,000 individuals representing all 50 states and over 140 countries, FIU boasts a diverse and dynamic community. The university offers more than 200 degree programs spanning undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels, including notable programs in medicine and law. As a Carnegie R1 institution, FIU is renowned for driving cutting-edge research in areas such as environmental resilience, health, technology, and innovation. The university is home to influential research centers including the Wall of Wind and the Institute of Environment, placing it at the forefront of discovery and innovation. FIU emphasizes student success, economic mobility, and community engagement, redefining the standards of a public research university through its impactful initiatives and extensive alumni network of more than 340,000 members.

The Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CSHTM) at FIU is seeking an Executive Director of Development to serve as the chief fundraising officer and an essential member of the school's leadership team. This executive role is pivotal in providing visionary strategic and operational leadership to design, build, and grow a comprehensive advancement program that aligns with the school’s ambitious mission, vision, and campaign goals. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, the Executive Director of Development is responsible for developing and achieving long-term financial targets, with a strong emphasis on securing substantial principal and major gifts valued at $500,000 and above.

The role involves developing and directing the strategic plan for fundraising, stewardship, board management, and alumni relations for CSHTM. The Executive Director plans and implements innovative fundraising strategies to secure philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, and foundations in support of the school’s campaign priorities. Managing all fundraising activities, this executive will lead efforts in cultivation, proposal development, solicitation, and stewardship of donors. The position also requires proactive management of a personal portfolio of up to 180 potential donors and prospects.

The Executive Director will spearhead the school’s portion of the broader university campaign, overseeing all campaign fundraising and alumni activities related to CSHTM. Serving as a trusted advisor, this leader provides professional guidance to the Dean and academic and administrative leaders on external relations and fundraising priorities. Responsibilities include frequent personal solicitation of past and prospective donors both locally and internationally, leading development staff, and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. This role demands extensive travel for donor cultivation and attendance at events.

Furthermore, the Executive Director ensures effective stewardship and oversight of gifts, pledges, and grants, including scholarship funds established by charitable donations. Close collaboration with university stakeholders such as the FIU Alumni Association, President's Council, Board of Trustees, and FIU Foundation Board of Directors is essential for forming and executing robust fundraising strategies. The executive will also manage departmental budgets, oversee development staff performance, and ensure compliance with university policies and standards.

This position values continuous learning and awareness of industry trends in hospitality and tourism, both nationally and internationally. The Executive Director must uphold the highest standards of honesty, integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism in all aspects of the role. With an advertised salary range of $155,000 to $165,000 and an administrative job classification, the position offers a structured work schedule from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM but may require flexible hours and travel internationally for donor engagement and university functions.