Classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a “higher research activity” institution, Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a scholarly environment in which students work side-by-side with faculty to advance the arts, humanities, and sciences. Scholarship and teaching are equally valued at SMU. The strength and rigor of an SMU education are reflected in the University’s national reputation. The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings 2020 counts SMU among the top 15% of colleges nationwide, and U.S. News & World Report lists SMU at No. 64 in its ranking of national universities.

The Opportunity

The Senior Executive Director of Development Services will be an innovative, dynamic leader who is adept at both strategy and operations. S/He will help prepare the foundation for SMU’s next major capital campaign and ensure that the development systems and prospect research functions of the University are set up to meet the needs of frontline fundraisers and other development leaders. The Senior Executive Director will become part of a team of strong leaders, including President R. Gerald Turner and Vice President for Development and External Affairs Brad Cheves, and will be a key member of the Vice President’s strategy team.

This role is ideal for an innovative and dynamic leader to propel his/her career dynamically forward. S/He will help launch an exciting fundraising campaign catapulting the University to the next level as it shapes world changers.