Senior Director of Development

University of San Diego

Senior Director of Development

Bryant Group is proud to once again partner with the University of San Diego to recruit the Senior Director of Development, Knauss School of Business.

The University of San Diego is seeking a passionate and experienced fundraising professional to serve as Senior Director of Development for the Knauss School of Business (KSB) . This senior leadership role is responsible for leading major gift fundraising efforts for KSB and university-wide priorities. Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Development and working closely with the Dean of KSB, the Senior Director will play a pivotal role in advancing the school’s mission and enhancing its impact locally, nationally and globally.

In this role, the Senior Director will manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, including gifts of $25,000 or more, and will develop and implement strategies for identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship. The position requires collaboration with faculty, department heads, alumni, corporations and foundations to strengthen relationships and secure transformational support for scholarships, faculty chairs, centers and institutes, and other strategic initiatives. The Senior Director will also support the Dean and KSB leadership in advancing fundraising priorities and promoting the school’s visibility through events, communications and community engagement.

The Senior Director will oversee the KSB development team, providing leadership, coaching and guidance to ensure the successful execution of fundraising strategies. This includes managing staff, directing budgets, tracking progress toward goals and ensuring accurate reporting and data management. The role also requires collaboration across university advancement offices, including Alumni Relations, Planned Giving, Marketing and Communications and Advancement Services, to create cohesive strategies that maximize donor engagement and impact.

The ideal candidate will have at least seven years of fundraising experience, a proven record of securing and stewarding major gifts, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders. Higher education experience is preferred and a master’s degree is strongly desired. This is a unique opportunity for a visionary advancement leader to make a lasting impact on the Knauss School of Business and the University of San Diego.

California’s Pay Transparency Act (SB 1162) requires employers with 15 or more employees to include a pay scale for job postings, including internal and external postings and job postings through third parties. Per the University of San Diego, the salary range of $140,000 - $150,000 reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.

About the University of San Diego

The University of San Diego (USD) is a private Catholic research university located in San Diego, California. Established in 1949, USD offers a comprehensive range of programs across various disciplines. USD is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, community service, and fostering ethical leadership. The campus, situated atop Alcalá Park, offers stunning views of San Diego and is renowned for its beautiful Spanish Renaissance-inspired architecture. Notably, USD has been ranked among the most beautiful college campuses in the United States by various publications. With a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on global engagement, USD provides numerous opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs and internships worldwide. The university's mission is to prepare compassionate and ethical leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

For more information, visit : Senior Director, Knauss School of Business

To submit your name for confidential consideration or to nominate a colleague : email Bryant Group.

Priority will be given to application materials received by October 24, 2025