The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston), a nationally recognized leader in health education, research, and patient care, is seeking a visionary Director of Gift Planning II to drive innovative strategies for planned and blended giving. This is a unique opportunity to join one of the nation’s foremost academic health institutions at a time of remarkable momentum—helping shape the future of philanthropy that fuels life-changing medical breakthroughs, world-class education, and compassionate care.
Founded in 1972, UTHealth Houston comprises seven distinguished schools—dentistry, medicine, nursing, public health, behavioral health sciences, biomedical sciences, and biomedical informatics—and is strategically located in the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. The university manages more than 60 properties totaling nearly 5 million square feet, employs over 8,000 faculty and staff, and educates more than 5,400 students annually. Beyond the campus, UTHealth Houston is increasingly influencing national health policy and expanding its impact in global health innovation, tackling the most complex health challenges of our time.
This is an especially exciting chapter in the university’s history. In September Dr. Melina R. Kibbe joins UTHealth Houston as President, bringing a bold vision for advancing academic medicine and fostering interdisciplinary innovation. An accomplished researcher and clinician with strong entrepreneurial experience, Dr. Kibbe has a successful record of leading programs and partnerships at large, prominent academic health institutions.
The Director of Gift Planning II will play a central role in sustaining and amplifying this momentum. Reporting to the Senior Director of Gift Planning, David Starnes, and collaborating with Major Gift Officers, the Vice President of Principal Gifts, and other key stakeholders, the Director will build lasting relationships with donors, guiding them toward meaningful philanthropic investments. With a portfolio of approximately 70 major planned gift prospects and a focus on asset-based giving, the Director will advance strategies that inspire donors to make transformational commitments. This work will not only secure resources for the present but also strengthen UTHealth Houston’s long-term philanthropic foundation.
The Office of Development fuels UTHealth Houston’s mission by generating resources that support students, faculty, research, and community programs. Following the record-breaking success of the Many Faces. One Mission. campaign—which raised $534.4 million—the university is well-positioned for its next chapter of philanthropic achievement. The Director will be a critical partner in expanding engagement within the grateful patient community, cultivating high-value opportunities for giving, and ensuring the highest level of stewardship.
The successful candidate will become part of a team of dedicated professionals within the Office of Development who are deeply committed to the university’s mission and passionate about supporting the future of academic medicine. Together, this team advances UTHealth Houston’s philanthropic priorities with integrity, creativity, and a shared vision for improving health outcomes locally and globally.
The ideal candidate will bring at least six years of major gift fundraising in planned giving or related experience. Preference for experience in higher education and/or healthcare setting, along with strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to earn the trust and confidence of donors. A professional presence, collaborative approach, and proven track record of closing significant gifts will be essential to success.
This hybrid position requires the successful candidate to be on campus at least three days each week and to reside within a reasonable commute of the Houston, Texas office.
Candidates should provide a resume and a letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described in the Leadership Profile. Application materials can be submitted by clicking the buttons below.
Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Ashley Buderus and Maya Holt-Brockenbrough, Ph.D. at [email protected].