With a passion for and commitment to advancing science through both research and education, Van Andel Institute is a world renowned premier research organization. Van Andel Institute is comprised of Van Andel Research Institute and Van Andel Education Institute. Cancer research is Van Andel Research Institute’s primary focus, but studies branch out into other diseases such as osteoporosis, Parkinson’s, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The Research Institute’s facilities offer an open laboratory layout that encourages collaboration amongst researchers, students and staff. The Education Institute includes the K-12 Science Academy, Van Andel Institute Graduate School, and Post-Doctoral Fellowships. The Van Andel Institute is located on Grand Rapids’ “Medical Mile,” surrounded by hospitals, universities, and other life science organizations. It is comprised of prominent doctors, researchers and educators who have made and continue to make significant contributions to the scientific community.
Van Andel Research Institute is seeking a Director of Development who will set a clear vision and implement creative and innovative strategies for generating funds that will go entirely to support its research projects. S/he will manage a staff of 1 development officer and they will work collaboratively to secure philanthropic gifts through a process of identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major and leadership gift prospects and will develop new approaches to build a wider donor base. The Director of Development will report to the Vice President of Development.
About Van Andel Institute
Founded in 1996 by Jay and Betty Van Andel, Van Andel Institute opened its doors in 2000 and is comprised of the Van Andel Research Institute and the Van Andel Education Institute. The Institute is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through biomedical research and science education. It supports the developing life science industry in West Michigan with Greater Grand Rapids as the western anchor of a life science research and resource corridor.
Van Andel Research Institute is an independent, world-class medical research facility that has gained worldwide recognition for basic and translational research into the genetic and molecular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s, osteoporosis, and other diseases. The Research Institute is home to remarkable research supported by state of the art laboratories, core facilities, and technology. This research has led to advances in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It has also established VARI as an establishment of excellent reputation among peer institutions. VARI focuses on the study of diseases including a variety of cancers and neurodegenerative diseases, bone diseases, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and psychological disorders, among others. The Research Institute is also dedicated to promoting science education through a variety of programs including post-doctoral fellowships, a variety of internships, and a lecture series for interested researchers, students, and other members of the community.
About Grand Rapids, Michigan
Voted “Best City for Raising a Family” by Forbes Magazine, Grand Rapids is a vibrant town with burgeoning cultural, business and science centers throughout. Replete with museums, historical sites, performance theaters, nature trails, beaches and of course, the Van Andel Institute, there is something for everyone. Grand Rapids is also a world leader in environmental sustainability practices and has been called “America’s Greenest City.” This hip and friendly town is home to top-rated restaurants, a large array of fun outdoor activities and an exciting nighttime scene. Grand Rapids has become a desirable place to call home for people at all stages of life and the expanding scientific community, supported by places like the Van Andel Institute, are bringing high-quality educational opportunities for children and students of all ages.
About the Position
Key Responsibilities
Implementing and supporting innovative strategies for securing new funding streams to support the Van Andel Research Institute.
Setting and achieving fundraising goals to ensure the success of the Research Institute’s programmatic and research initiative.
Provide general management and fundraising process support to senior-level management, scientists, and multiple department/laboratory personnel; including providing prospect research, rating and qualifying support.
Establishing effective performance metrics for evaluation, quickly building a portfolio of donors that are assigned appropriately.
Expanding the prospect and donor base, and maintaining relationships with current supporters of the Research Institute, establishing and maintaining a strong moves management process.
Coordinating special events for cultivation and stewardship which may include large receptions, dinners, conferences, meetings, and presentations.
Developing and implementing effective prospect management and reporting systems.
Setting and meeting clear fundraising goals for the development department and staff that will enable continued growth and expansion of the Research Institute.
Collecting information and developing fundraising materials for gift proposals, annual reports, brochures, and other marketing materials as necessary.
Working closely with the Vice President of Development on high-level funding issues and engaging other staff throughout the Research Institute in development efforts.
Make solicitation visits with VARI staff as directed by the VP of Development, President of VARI, and the Research Director.
Staying abreast of important philanthropic issues related to scientific research and education.
Ensuring that all programs comply with the Institute’s policies and standards.
A minimum of 7-10 years of fundraising experience, with an emphasis on securing major, annual, and planned gifts.
Demonstrated success and experience in fundraising strategies for prospect research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Ability to successfully implement systems and processes.
Experience managing a portfolio and closing six- and seven-figure gifts.
Entrepreneurial attitude with the ability to build the existing development program and secure new funding streams.
Creative thinker who can adapt to new ways of raising money.
Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.
Poise and confidence to cultivate and steward major donors, and the ability to maintain friendly and cooperative relations with researchers and other medical professionals.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong planning skills and the ability to prioritize tasks to achieve goals in a timely manner.
Working knowledge of Raiser’s Edge or equivalent software required.
The ability to perform well in a collaborative environment.
Experience in the medical, life science or university environment preferred.
To Apply
Questions, resumes and CVs should be sent to search@driconsulting.com .
All first-round interviews for the Director of Development will take place at Development Resources, inc. at 1601 N. Kent Street, Suite 1200, Arlington, VA 22209, (703) 294-6684, or via telephone/video conference.
Van Andel Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is seeking a diverse slate of qualified candidates for formal consideration.
Van Andel Institute - 11 months ago
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