Lead Strategic Fundraising & Innovation as Assistant Chief Advancement Officer at CWI!

Are you a visionary fundraiser and strategic leader ready to make a lasting impact in higher education? The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is seeking an Assistant Chief Advancement Officer, Strategic Initiatives to drive major gift campaigns, lead high-impact projects, and shape the future of philanthropy and institutional advancement.

Why Join CWI?

At CWI, we are committed to accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and strengthens our community. In this pivotal leadership role, you’ll collaborate across departments, mentor colleagues, and lead initiatives that directly support student success, academic excellence, and community engagement.

Benefits:

CWI offers one of the most affordable and comprehensive benefits packages in higher education, including:

• Premium healthcare plans

• 11%+ employer retirement contributions

• Tuition discounts

• Generous personal leave

• Professional development opportunities

Fundraising Leadership with Purpose:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive major gifts strategy aligned with institutional priorities

• Cultivate and steward a portfolio of major gift prospects including individuals, families, foundations, and corporations

• Collaborate with Advancement leadership to design targeted solicitation plans and stewardship activities

Strategic Initiatives that Drive Impact:

• Lead and manage high-priority initiatives from inception to implementation

• Coordinate cross-functionally with college leadership, faculty, and external partners

• Define goals, budgets, timelines, and success metrics for strategic projects

Collaborative Donor Engagement:

• Design and implement donor relations strategies that align with CWI’s mission and fundraising goals

• Serve as a liaison to college leadership, committees, and external boards

• Oversee stewardship strategies including recognition, impact reporting, and engagement

Compelling Communications & Campaign Support:

• Partner with Advancement colleagues to craft persuasive proposals and impact narratives

• Prepare executive-level briefings and progress reports for leadership and donors

Team Leadership & Culture Building:

• Foster a collaborative, results-driven culture within the Advancement team

• Mentor development staff and support professional growth

• Ensure compliance with ethical standards and institutional policies

Key Responsibilities:

Major Gifts & Donor Strategy

• Lead major gift campaigns and donor engagement

• Develop tailored solicitation and stewardship plans

Strategic Project Leadership

• Manage cross-functional initiatives with measurable outcomes

• Align projects with institutional priorities

Communications & Collaboration

• Create compelling donor materials and executive briefings

• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders

Team Development & Compliance

• Mentor staff and build team capacity

• Uphold fundraising ethics and regulatory standards

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, or related field (Master’s preferred)

• 7–10 years of fundraising experience with a strong record in major gifts

• Proven success leading strategic initiatives and cross-functional teams

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills

• Strategic thinker with strong project management capabilities

• Proficiency in donor management systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce)

• Analytical mindset with data-driven decision-making skills

• Commitment to ethics, integrity, and donor-centric practices