Assistant Director, Major Gifts

The V Foundation for Cancer Research is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven fundraising professional to join our Major Gifts Development team as the Assistant Director of Major Gifts. The ideal candidate will be based in the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan area or nearby surrounding communities. Our mission is to fund game-changing cancer research and support all-star scientists working to achieve Victory Over Cancer and save lives.

Salary Range: $80,000 – $85,000

Please note that it is uncommon for candidates to be hired at or near the top of the salary range. Compensation decisions are based on several factors, including experience, skill set, internal equity, work location, market conditions, and overall business considerations.

Position Overview:

The Assistant Director of Major Gifts reports directly to the Executive Director of Major Gifts and is responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts of $25,000 and above. This role places a strong emphasis on building and advancing the major gifts pipeline while developing meaningful, long-term donor relationships. The position will manage a portfolio of donors and prospects primarily located in Phoenix, Arizona, along with select individuals throughout the broader Southwest region.

The successful candidate will be accountable for achieving annual fundraising and activity goals through strategic engagement, thoughtful stewardship, and proactive relationship management. This role will also leverage the Foundation’s Phoenix Epicurean event as a key platform for donor cultivation, community engagement, and philanthropic growth opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage all stages of a robust major gifts portfolio focused primarily on individuals in the Phoenix area Identify and cultivate new donor prospects while strengthening relationships with existing supporters

Develop and execute individualized donor engagement and solicitation strategies

Achieve annual fundraising, pipeline development, and activity metrics

Partner with leadership and colleagues to support ambitious revenue growth goals

Utilize events and donor experiences to deepen engagement and increase philanthropic investment

Ensure thoughtful stewardship and ongoing communication with donors and prospects

Successful performance in this role will contribute directly to expanding the V Foundation’s impact and advancing innovative cancer research initiatives nationwide.

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience.
3-5 years of relevant Major Gift work experience.

Demonstrated track record of success in developing and building a robust major gift portfolio by soliciting and closing five- and six-figure philanthropic gifts.

Knowledge of and commitment to detailed and accurate CRM database reporting.

Proactive, self-starter with a strong sense of purpose.

A belief in the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and action that demonstrates this commitment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Proven ability to connect individual performance goals to team and organizational goals.
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