Major Gifts Officer

Reporting to the Director of Development, the MGO is responsible for expanding the School's donor base and strengthening relationships with its constituencies. The MGO will perform a key role in the qualification and solicitation of the most philanthropically capable individuals and families to secure leadership annual gifts, major gifts, and planned gifts. This is a largely external-facing position, requiring both local and national travel.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintain current knowledge of school and campaign funding needs and priorities; identify prospective donors for those needs; Manage a portfolio of approximately 125-175 alumnae, parents, grandparents and friends capable of making gifts of $25,000+; Complete a minimum of 120 face-to-face visits with assigned prospects each year;   Secure leadership gifts from assigned prospects; Plan strategies from cultivation to gift closure and implement those strategies in coordination with DOD and Chief Advancement Officer; report progress toward achievement; Work with the DOD and Development team to ensure donors are recognized and well stewarded; Conduct screening meetings and develop philanthropic profiles with assigned prospects; Assist specific Reunion Class committees with Reunion Gift Campaigns, as needed; Travel for events, volunteer meetings, and prospect meetings and work evenings and weekends as needed; and Perform other tasks or projects as determined by DOD, CAO, and Head of School. QUALIFICATIONS: Leadership An understanding of and appreciation for independent schools and girls' schools are preferred. A leader who acts with a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. A collegial, flexible, and collaborative team player. The ability to work independently and as part of a team. Experience, Skills, and Knowledge Bachelor's degree in business, nonprofit administration, or related field required. At least three to five years of fundraising or transferable experience, preferably in an educational setting within an independent school in major and/or principal gifts. Must have a demonstrated track record of developing, engaging, and managing a portfolio with experience soliciting and closing major gifts. Must have exceptional writing and communication skills and the ability to work with people at all levels of an organization. Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills. High level of fluency with Raiser's Edge NXT, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office. Ability to organize and prioritize work, multi-task, and collaborate with people on various projects—from administrators, professional community members, volunteers, parents, and alumnae.