Associate Director of Philanthropy - Individual Giving

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

Are you a connector, a strategist, and a storyteller who thrives on building relationships that make a difference? Van Andel Institute is looking for an exceptional Associate Director of Philanthropy - Individual Giving to help us shape the future of biomedical research and science education.

This isn’t just a fundraising role; it’s a chance to build a new position focused on raising private support for VAI activities and programs. You’ll work alongside world-class researchers, educators, and leaders to spark partnerships that fuel discovery, innovation, and impact.

What You’ll Do

• Cultivate and manage a portfolio of major gifts, corporate annual gifts, foundations, and planned gifts where capacity is $10,000 or more.
• Lead strategic outreach, donor engagement and advancement program operation.
• Collaborate with VAI faculty and leadership to align mission with funding priorities.
• Reenvision and manager direct appeals for annual and planned giving initiatives.
• Manage a portfolio of 50 donor prospects through face-to-face interactions.
• Build strong, engaged relationships with gift prospects.
• Represent VAI at high-profile events and meetings with foundation executives
• Drive support for research, educational programming and other VAI priorities

What You Bring

• Proven success in individual giving for an annual giving program
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives
• Passion for science, education, and making a lasting impact
• Willingness to travel and engage with partners across the country

Why VAI?

Van Andel Institute is a place where bold ideas thrive. We’re home to cutting-edge research, inspiring education programs, and a collaborative culture that values curiosity and purpose. As part of our Philanthropy team, you’ll help shape the future of human health and be part of something truly meaningful.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and/or Business, OR
• Combination of education and equivalent experience, 3+ years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public relations, volunteer administration, professional and higher education fundraising, marketing or related field.
• 7 years of institute, life sciences or comparable non-profit fundraising experience in the major gifts, annual gifts, and planned gifts disciplines.
• 5 years of direct donor research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship practice.
• Proven track record of securing significant gifts using a well-disciplined moves management process for fundraising.
• Experience training and managing staff.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and other presentation software.
• Working knowledge and experience with Raisers Edge or equivalent software.

How to Apply

In your application, provide the following in a single combined PDF format:

• cover letter including: 1) demonstrated success in fundraising and foundation relation cultivation and management, 2) how you connect with the mission, and 3) shared values and skills
• current resume
• names and contact information of 3 professional references

This position will be open until filled. You must apply by uploading one combined pdf document including all 3 requested materials. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or have any questions, please email Megan Doerr at Megan.Doerr@vai.org. There is no need to email once you have submitted your application. Each application will be reviewed on an individual basis.

About Van Andel Institute

Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.

VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.   

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process.  This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines. 

About Grand Rapids, MI  

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile.  A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.  

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.