We are seeking a dynamic, highly motivated, self-directed development professional to serve as a member of the Development team. The primary responsibilities are the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of major gift donors and prospects. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for College Advancement, the Director of Major Gifts will work as a valued member of the development team to maximize philanthropic support for the College, with a focus on unrestricted giving.

Responsibilities

The Director of Major Gifts will manage a portfolio of 100+ donors and prospects; develop strategies and execute outreach, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship activity for new and existing donors; schedule and conduct cultivation, briefing, solicitation and stewardship meetings; achieve agreed upon goals, including annual donor face-to-face visits, asks, dollars raised, and donor communication. The Director of Major Gifts is responsible for maintaining accurate donor records and to track all moves and contacts through the Raiser’s Edge database. Composes all correspondence relating to activity, including but not limited to acknowledgements, donor profiles, strategy briefing documents, funding proposals, letters of intent, pledge reminders, etc.

The Director of Major Gifts must have exceptional interpersonal skills and work closely with Advancement staff and volunteers, including the College President, Vice Presidents, and members of the Board.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 5+ years of frontline leadership/major gift fundraising experience, preferably in an institution of higher education, and demonstrated success in soliciting major and leadership gifts.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build longstanding, positive relationships with donors.
• Outstanding written and verbal communications skills are essential.
• Passion and appreciation for Manhattan College’s mission and goals.
• Experience and proficiency with donor database software (Raiser’s Edge preferred) and an intermediate command of Microsoft Word and Excel are required.
• Must hold and maintain a valid, unrestricted US driver’s license, with an insurable driving history as determined by Manhattan College’s insurance carrier.
• Conversant in basic gift planning techniques preferred.
• Ability to travel. Some weekend and evening duties are required.