Major Gift Officer

Major Gift Officer

Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy, the Major Gift Officer will implement strategies to secure major gifts from donors. Responsibilities include building and managing a portfolio of major gift prospects, cultivating relationships through personalized communications and engagement events, and closing major gifts. The Major Gift Officer will collaborate closely with the Development team to ensure alignment with overall fundraising goals and initiatives.

Additionally, the Major Gift Officer will engage in donor stewardship activities, including recognition events, personalized communications, and ongoing relationship management to ensure donor retention and long-term support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Qualify prospective major donors capable of making significant contributions to the organization.
• Build and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, developing and implementing personalized cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors through strategic communication, meetings, and engagement opportunities.
• Prepare and present compelling gift opportunities to major donors, effectively articulating the impact of their support on the organization's mission and programs.
• Collaborate with the Development team to ensure alignment of major gift strategies with overall fundraising goals and initiatives.
• Establish and maintain thorough records of donor interactions using the organization's CRM.
• Develop annual revenue projections based on donor and prospect profiles, capacity, and engagement strategies.
• Participate in donor cultivation events, stewardship activities, and other special events to engage donors and prospects with a focus on recruiting new prospects and strengthening donor engagement.
• Conduct regular assessments and analysis of major gifts pipeline and progress towards fundraising goals, providing reports and updates to senior leadership as needed.
• Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and donor preferences in fundraising, continually refining strategies to maximize philanthropic support.
• Serve as an ambassador for the organization, effectively communicating its mission, vision, and impact to donors, stakeholders, and the community at large.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned in alignment with the scope and responsibilities of the role.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field preferred.
• Three or more years of experience in fundraising or related field, preferably within the nonprofit sector or performing arts industry.
• Proven track record of success in securing and stewarding major gifts from individual donors, with a proven ability to meet or exceed fundraising goals.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices, particularly in cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• One or more years of demonstrated work experience with CRM systems.

Required Skills & Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and relationships with donors, board members, and staff at all levels.
• Ability to deal with a range of styles and behaviors in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment, demonstrating flexibility, creativity, and a positive attitude.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to craft persuasive proposals and donor communications.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute fundraising strategies, identify opportunities, and overcome challenges to achieve fundraising objectives.
• Proficiency in persuasive communication to effectively solicit major gifts and secure commitments from donors.
• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on achieving fundraising goals and maximizing the impact of major gift-giving efforts.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for donor meetings, events, and performances.
• Sensitivity to diverse perspectives and experiences, with the ability to engage with donors from diverse backgrounds and cultures in a respectful and inclusive manner.
• Adherence to ethical fundraising practices, donor confidentiality, and compliance with industry regulations and standards, including the AFP Code of Ethical Standards.
• Commitment to the mission and values of our organization and the performing arts community.
• Must be 21 years of age.
• Must be legally…