General Summary:

• Identifies and promotes relationships with major donors with an emphasis on major gifts.
• Develops and promotes relationship strategies for major gift prospects in assigned portfolio. Collaborates with major gift prospects in assigned region.
• Identifies potential major gift prospects, including determining the interest and affiliation with the University.
• Builds relationships with donors and coordinates strategies and personal visits for the involvement of institutional partners.
• Writes major gift proposals and agreements.
• May develop and execute training and professional development strategies for engagement managers, major gift officers and applicable University personnel to include webinars, interactive solicitations and presentations.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in related field from an accredited institution.
• Five years’ relevant experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends.

Desired Qualifications: 

• Three to five years of relevant experience in funding and/or volunteer management, and/or relationship-driven sales, and/or direct marketing.
• Experience in major gift fundraising within a complex University environment.
• Demonstrated history of creating successful and collegial partnerships with peers and supervisors.
• Experience in successfully connecting people and resources.

Required Applicant Documents: 

• cover letter highlighting your qualifications
• resume
• list of references

Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents.