Job Description

Divinity Director of Development

Work Arrangement: On-Site Requisition Number: 264543 Regular or Temporary: Regular Location:

Durham, NC, US, 27710

Personnel Area: UNIVERSITY Date: Jan 7, 2026

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

Duke Divinity School is seeking a Director of Development to join our External Relations team. In this role, you will lead comprehensive fundraising efforts that support the School’s mission and priorities, including endowment growth, scholarships, faculty support, and strategic initiatives. You’ll work closely with the Associate Dean for External Relations and collaborate with alumni, major donors, and the Board of Visitors to advance the School’s vision.

You will oversee a talented team responsible for annual giving, alumni engagement, major gifts, stewardship, events, and budget management. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact by shaping strategies that sustain theological education and strengthen relationships with churches, foundations, and individual supporters.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in communications, business, or related field.

  • Seven years of experience in fundraising, alumni relations, public relations, or related areas.

  • Strong leadership and organizational skills with experience supervising staff.

  • Proven ability to develop and implement successful fundraising strategies.

  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

    • Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree or equivalent.

  • Significant experience with and understanding of the church and theological education.

  • Familiarity with major gift cultivation and solicitation strategies.

  • Experience managing comprehensive campaigns and donor stewardship programs.

    • Be Bold.

    Essential Responsibilities

  • Direct major gifts program to secure multi-year contributions for endowment, scholarships, faculty support, and initiatives.

  • Supervise staff responsible for annual fund, alumni engagement, major gifts, stewardship, and events.

  • Develop and implement strategies for Board of Visitors engagement and comprehensive campaigns.

  • Oversee donor tracking systems and generate reports on gifts, goals, and progress.

  • Provide leadership in budget planning, personnel actions, and operational strategy.

    • Choose Duke.

    At Duke Divinity School, you’ll join a community committed to excellence in theological education and service to the church and world. Our team values collaboration, innovation, and stewardship, and we work together to advance the mission of forming Christian leaders. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke offers a vibrant campus environment and access to a competitive benefits package. Learn more about Duke University’s benefits.

    Anticipated Pay Range:

    Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $78,161.00 to USD $156,319.00. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

    Job Code: 00001279 DIR, DEVELOPMENT


    Job Level: 16

    Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.

    Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

    Essential Physical Job Functions:


    Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


    Nearest Major Market: Durham
    Nearest Secondary Market: Raleigh

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