Leadership Giving Officer
Overview:
The Leadership Giving Officer (LGO) serves as a front-line fundraiser responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of high-potential alumni and friends of the University. The LGO develops and executes strategic “moves management” plans to secure major commitments and planned gifts at the $10,000 level. The primary focus of this role is proactive fieldwork, requiring frequent face-to-face engagement (in-person and virtual) to build a robust philanthropic pipeline. Additionally, the LGO plays an active role in grant administration, managing the lifecycle of foundation and corporate grant opportunities—from proposal development and data gathering to reporting and compliance. Reporting to the Executive Director for Leadership Giving, the LGO collaborates across University Advancement to align fundraising efforts with the University’s strategic priorities and long-term financial goals of the university, with the goal of securing and increasing philanthropic donations.
Responsibilities:
- Direct Fundraising & Portfolio Management:
- Manage a portfolio of 100 –120 major gift prospects, executing strategies to secure annual and multi-year commitments of $10,000 or more.
- Conduct a high volume of monthly visits to qualify new prospects and move existing donors through the gift cycle (Identification to Closure).
- Prepare compelling written proposals, gift agreements, and case statements that align donor intent with University priorities.
- Identify and cultivate opportunities for deferred gifts (bequests/annuities) to support long-term.
- Ensure all donors in the portfolio receive high-touch, personalized stewardship, fostering long-term retention and increased lifetime value.
- Strategic Grant Administration and Operational Excellence/Advancement Support:
- Lead the administration of foundation and corporate grants, specifically managing proposal development and requirements.
- Ensures all gift acceptance and documentation follow University Advancement procedures and data privacy policies.
- Maintain accurate and timely records of all donor interactions and “moves” within the Raiser’s Edge NXT database.
- Stay current on best practices in higher education fundraising and philanthropic trends.
- Strategy & Collaboration:
- Collaborate with Deans, faculty, and school leadership to identify funding needs and develop specific “menus” for philanthropic investment.
- Attend and support University-sponsored events (alumni reunions, campaign launches, etc.) to engage and qualify prospective donors.
- Other duties as assigned.
- On occasion, will have to travel on behalf of the university.
Minimum Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
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Minimum 5 years of professional fundraising experience, with proven track record of
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direct solicitation and closing gifts at the $10,000+ level is required.
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Demonstrated experience in preparing successful gift proposals and conducting major
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gift solicitation is required.
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Direct experience in grant writing and administration is required.
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Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge NXT) and other management related software is required.
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A proactive, “closer” mentality with deep understanding of the fundraising/donor cycle.
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Ability to self-manage time, prioritize tasks, prioritize high-yield prospects, and meet
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ambitious solicitation targets.
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Ability to build rapport with diverse constituents, including alumni, faculty, and
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leadership.
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Capacity to thrive in a fast-paced environment and pivot strategies based on changing
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University needs.
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Highest level of discretion and confidentiality regarding sensitive donor information.
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Strong attention to detail.
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Valid drivers license is required or must have the ability to have reliable transportation to travel on behalf of the university.
To apply for this job please visit careers.rmu.edu.