Major Gifts Officer

Overview:

The Major Gifts Officer at American Principles Project (APP) is a critical member of the Development team, responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with major donors to support APP’s mission. The ideal candidate will be a strategic relationship-builder, adept at understanding donors’ philanthropic goals and aligning them with APP’s vision and initiatives. This role involves identifying new prospects, deepening relationships with existing donors, and working closely with the leadership team to secure major gifts and build lasting partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: Build and maintain relationships with a portfolio of major donors. Engage in personalized outreach, regular communication, and face-to-face meetings to deepen donors' commitment to APP’s mission.
• Prospect Research and Development: Identify, research, and prioritize new prospective donors. Develop strategies to engage them, presenting giving opportunities that align with their interests and APP’s funding needs.
• Gift Solicitation: Develop and implement individual fundraising plans to meet revenue goals. Prepare compelling proposals, presentations, and written materials for solicitations, securing major gifts that drive APP’s work forward.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the Development team and leadership to establish revenue targets, identify high-impact funding needs, and create strategies to achieve APP’s long-term fundraising objectives.
• Donor Communications: Coordinate with the Communications team to ensure consistent and meaningful donor engagement through updates, reports, newsletters, and special events. Personalize donor materials to convey the impact of their contributions.
• Event Support and Coordination: Assist in the planning and execution of donor events, such as galas, briefings, and private receptions. Coordinate logistics, prepare event briefings, and ensure high-quality donor experiences.
• Reporting and Documentation: Maintain detailed records of donor interactions, solicitation activities, and giving history. Ensure accurate data entry in the CRM system and provide regular reports on fundraising progress to the Development Director.
• Team Collaboration: Partner with the Development team, senior leadership, and program staff to stay informed on APP’s initiatives, priorities, and goals. Use this knowledge to inform donor conversations and create compelling cases for support..

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, or a related field. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a proven track record in major gifts. Experience working with high-net-worth individuals and securing five- or six-figure gifts is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to connect with a diverse array of donors.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to craft compelling donor communications.
• Strategic thinker with a goal-oriented approach and ability to manage and prioritize a portfolio of major donors.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in CRM software (Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, etc.) and Microsoft Office Suite.

American Principles Project Benefits package includes:  

• CareFirst Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO Healthcare plan  
• Option to contribute to a 401(k) (no matching at this time)  
• Flexible Spending Account  
• Flexible Spending Account Dependent Care Allowance