Senior Directors and Directors of Development

several positions available

Clemson University

The Opportunity Overview

Clemson University is seeking several dynamic development roles on their University Development team. Two roles are at the Senior Director level, one focused on the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business and one focused on the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. The third role is a Director of Development that will join one of the Senior Directors in supporting the College of Business. These are exciting opportunities for seasoned advancement professionals to play a pivotal role in the philanthropic success of two of the pivotal colleges as Clemson continues its Fiercely Forward: A Campaign for Clemson, launched in February of 2025.

Senior Directors of Development lead all philanthropic strategies for their colleges, managing major-gift portfolios and securing at least $2M annually while partnering with Deans and university leadership to advance institutional priorities. They serve as the primary liaison to the Advancement Division, guide donor cultivation and stewardship, supervise development staff and strengthen the philanthropic pipeline to support capital campaign goals. A minimum of 5 years of fundraising or related experience, preferably with a strong record of closing six- and seven-figure gifts in higher education or complex nonprofits.

The Director of Development will build strong relationships with alumni and partners, manage a major-gift portfolio, and drive more than $2M in annual philanthropic support. Working within a collaborative Advancement team, you’ll advance Clemson’s mission, forge strategic partnerships and help fuel innovation and long-term success across the university. Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience, preferably in frontline fundraising with a proven ability to close six-figure gifts and the ability to travel.

The Senior Director roles offer a salary range of $130k - $150k and the Director role offer a salary range of $90k - $120k, with both including an excellent benefits package. 

About Clemson University

As a Carnegie R1 research institution, Clemson is at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation. The faculty and researchers are leading efforts to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from sustainability and health to advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity. Clemson University is among the top 25 public institutions in America, according to recent Wall Street Journal/College Pulse rankings. Clemson also holds the top spot among universities in the Palmetto State, according to the WSJ/College Pulse and recent rankings announced by Forbes and Niche. In addition to its overall ranking, the University also notched several impressive marks in the WSJ/College Pulse 2024 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, including a score of 84 in salary impact, measuring universities’ impact on their graduates’ salaries and how this relates to the cost of attending the college.

About Clemson University Foundation

Clemson University, founded in 1889 and located in Clemson, South Carolina, is a top public four-year institution offering more than 80 undergraduate majors and 130 graduate programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R1 research university, Clemson is a national leader in groundbreaking research and innovation, tackling global challenges in areas such as sustainability, health, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity. Consistently ranked among the nation’s best—including placement among the top 25 public universities by the Wall Street Journal/College Pulse and the top institution in South Carolina by WSJ, Forbes, and Niche—Clemson is a purpose-driven community where students, faculty, and staff work together to shape the future, supported by strong outcomes such as an 84 salary-impact score in recent national rankings.

The Clemson University Foundation, chartered in 1933, is an independent, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that promotes the welfare and future development of Clemson University.

Location

Clemson, South Carolina