The client is seeking a Director of Philanthropy (Major Gifts) to drive major-gifts fundraising growth by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, closing, and stewarding donors at the five-to-six-figure level. Reporting to the Managing Director of Development, this role will manage a portfolio of approximately 100–150 major donors and prospects and conduct more than 150 personal donor visits annually to support both day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. The position will also translate fundraising goals into tangible projects and targets, collect and manage pledges, and help ensure cash needs are met.
Core responsibilities include engaging high-net-worth individuals, partnering with the development team lead to develop and execute a multi-year major-gifts strategy, and preparing leadership or other influencers to support donor relationships as appropriate. The Director of Philanthropy will track contacts and activities in a fundraising database and coordinate prospect research, communications, and cultivation event logistics with development colleagues, while maintaining strict confidentiality of donor-related information.
In addition to fundraising, the Director of Philanthropy (Major Gifts) will serve as a coach/mentor and group facilitator for a small number of students, participating in weekly group sessions and contributing to staff meetings and trainings. The role is expected to draw on major-gifts experience (typically 5–7 years), demonstrated ability to build long-term donor partnerships, strategic leadership with measurable goal management, and strong communication, writing, and presentation skills. Proficiency with common productivity tools is expected, with experience in Salesforce or similar donor databases preferred, alongside a commitment to diversity and inclusion and a passion for working with young adults.