If you have any questions, please contact Cheryl Cathcart, director of human resources, at careers@vmiaa.org or 800-444-1839 ext. 229.
For a comprehensive list of all job openings at Virginia Military Institute, go to the VMI Jobs page.
Development Officer
Are you energized by building relationships, cultivating generosity, and supporting a legacy of excellence? The VMI Alumni Agencies are seeking a driven and personable Development Officer to join our advancement team and help grow leadership-level giving for the VMI Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club.
This is a relationship-centered role with real momentum—where strategy meets heart, and every handshake, phone call, and stewardship moment helps shape the future of VMI.
About the Role
Reporting to the Strategic Operations Officer, the Development Officer plays a key role in identifying, cultivating, and stewarding donors capable of making gifts between $1,000 and $25,000. You’ll manage a dynamic portfolio, travel for face-to-face visits, and support donor engagement through events, direct outreach, and collaborative fundraising efforts.
Whether you’re cheering alongside alumni at athletic contests or crafting thoughtful follow-ups after a successful solicitation, your work will directly support VMI’s mission and community.
Our Culture
At the VMI Alumni Agencies, we believe our team is more than just a group of colleagues—we’re a family. Our supportive, close-knit work culture is built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a genuine care for each other’s well-being. That’s why we offer:
- An exceptional benefits package
- A generous leave program
- Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
We take pride in our shared history and are energized by the future we’re building together.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute strategies to grow leadership-level giving through personal outreach, direct mail, and event fundraising
- Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects, guiding them through qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship
- Collaborate with Advancement Services to ensure thoughtful stewardship of leadership donors
- Attend athletic contests and donor events to strengthen relationships and represent the Alumni Agencies
- Support Keydet Club and Foundation activities including tailgates, donor dinners, and stewardship logistics
- Assist with other duties as requested by the Chief Development Officer
What You Bring
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities independently
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Preferred:
- Experience in higher education fundraising or annual giving
- 3+ years of experience cultivating and closing $1,000+ gifts
- Familiarity with donor database systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, NXT)
Why This Role Matters
Leadership donors are the backbone of VMI’s philanthropic strength. As Development Officer, you’ll be part of a team that honors tradition, builds trust, and inspires generosity. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and grow in a mission-driven environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Are you excited about this opportunity to appreciate our donors and make a meaningful impact? Apply now to join our team by emailing a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to careers@vmiaa.org with the subject line: “Development Officer.” Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
The VMI Alumni Agencies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sex, age, or disability. The VMI Alumni Agencies is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
For more information about the VMI Alumni Agencies, visit our website at http://www.vmiaa.org.