Job TitleExecutive Director of PhilanthropyRequisition NumberRE50956Working TitleExecutive Director of Gift PlanningDepartment Name14000:Office Of PhilanthropyWork LocationLexington, KYGrade Level52Salary Range$107,994-183,581/yearType of PositionStaffPosition Time Status Full-TimeRequired Education
BA
Click here for more information about equivalencies:https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience
9 yrs
Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Physical Requirements
Effectively communicating with individuals across a range of professional roles. Must have ability to travel throughout Kentucky and the U.S. for donor visits.
Shift
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with some nights and weekends
Job Summary
The Executive Director of Gift Planning is a strategic, donor-centered leader responsible for advancing the University of Kentucky’s (UK) legacy giving program through expert oversight of gift planning operations and gift agreement administration. This position provides visionary direction for the University’s comprehensive gift planning strategy while leading a team of gift planning professionals and plays a pivotal role in shaping philanthropic investments that support the university and donors legacy.
The Executive Director leads a team of gift planning professionals, manages a personal portfolio of high-net-worth prospects, and serves as a key partner on complex charitable giving strategies. This position drives outreach and engagement efforts, including strategic stewardship of the Limestone Society and integrated marketing campaigns to increase planned giving awareness and pipeline development.
This role partners closely with donors, advisors, and campus colleagues to ensure clarity, compliance, and long-term impact in every commitment secured. The successful candidate will bring a passion for legacy philanthropy, a collaborative mindset, and a track record of building meaningful donor relationships to help elevate the University’s mission through transformational giving.
The culture within the Office of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement (PAE) is built on our shared core values CoMMIT– Collaboration, Communication, Mission Driven, Mutual Respect, Innovation and Transparency.
By applying for a position within UK PAE, you are indicating your commitment and expressing your agreement to our six values. It is important you share these values in order to be part of our committed team!
Click Here to find out more about how UK provides exceptional benefits in its commitment to taking care of you.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Experience in charitable gift planning, estate planning, investments, and real estate; ability to work effectively with a wide range of University constituents. Highly professional and able to maintain the utmost of confidentiality. Unwavering commitment to customer service and providing prompt, professional responses to all prospect inquiries.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? YesPreferred Education/Experience
Work requires the ability to provide creative leadership and vision for a comprehensive gift planning program as well as the ability to effectively manage the gift planning staff, generally acquired through ten years of relevant experience in estate, financial, gift, or tax planning, including three to five years in a management/supervisory or project leadership role.
Deadline to Apply08/03/2025Our University Community
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Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
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Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
