POSITION SUMMARY

The Major Gift Officer is responsible for identifying, prospecting, cultivating and soliciting capital and annual gifts of $25,000 and above. This role has an annual fundraising goal of $2 million. The Gift Officer will manage their own portfolio and develop an annual work plan based on the department’s strategic plan. Responsibilities will also include developing a stewardship plan and implementing the plan across the department.

Candidates should have a genuine interest in the arts, understand and support the Dr. Phillips Center’s mission, and appreciate the important role cultural institutions play in the life of a vibrant community.

To learn more about how this role supports our vision of Arts for Every Life, visit Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Secure and steward major gifts at the $25,000+ level with the goal of raising $2 million annually towards the capital & annual campaigns. Identify and pursue new high net-worth prospects (individuals, families and corporate leadership) developing strategies to align immediate arts center needs with the donors’ giving priorities.  Manage and maintain a portfolio of 400+ major gift prospects and donors. Project manage appeals ensuring deadlines and fundraising goals are met.
• Create and implement moves management plans for each major donor and prospect. Prepare individually tailored presentations and/or proposals for solicitations and create packages specific to projects and the interests of prospects.
• Report and Database Management: Prepare written proposals, gift agreements, funder pitches, and other materials needed to define, secure and document major gifts. Effectively utilize Tessitura to maintain timely records of contacts with donors and prospects; analyze potential donor research materials to target appropriate givers; and track, evaluate and present relevant giving information.
• Acknowledge major donors through public and private recognition, ensuring appropriate acknowledgement of pledges, major gifts and planned gifts.
• Make direct, face-to-face solicitations, and assist the board and other staff with their solicitation (e.g. provide portfolio development support, strategic counsel, and help with donor communications).
• Track and report progress using specific metrics while fostering and preserving strong donor relationship practices. Identify, build and maintain relationships with new and prospective donors via face-to-face cultivation, solicitation and stewardship meetings, telephone calls, emails, and onsite tours.
• Develop and Execute Annual Plans: Work with the Development department colleagues to align efforts and set goals on strategic plans with short- and long-range metrics to meet funding objectives.
• Coordinate and manage donor cultivation events for major donors and prospects.
• Attend and participate in weekly Development Team strategy sessions.  Provide status reports on progress towards goals.
• Work collaboratively with board members, leadership and other departments to assist with donor cultivation and solicitation.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience plus a minimum of 5 years (direct or equivalent) experience managing high level donor relationships with demonstrated success in closing major gifts. Extensive experience cultivating and soliciting high net-worth individuals for outright gifts and planned gifts and a proven track record in the management of successful development programs.
• Ability to conceive, plan, and execute a major gifts program, including: annual giving, special events, and special projects/campaigns. Results-oriented with a focus on donor and goal achievement.
• Possess strong initiative, creativity, flexibility, adaptability and an entrepreneurial spirit.  Enjoys working as a team player but also can work independently and as a self-starter.

• Superior interpersonal skills and ability to communicate professionally with a diverse group of donors, board members and colleagues. Possess excellent verbal skills, written communication skills and good business sense.
• High level proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, etc.) and a working knowledge of search functions for donor research purposes.

This role is located on-site at the Dr. Phillips Center.  Candidates seeking remote work should not apply.  

To learn more or to apply, please visit our careers page: Major Gift Officer