Director of Major Gifts

The primary responsibility of the Director of Major Gifts is to cultivate major gifts, review and oversee solicitation/giving process, as well as guide and execute the individual fundraising strategies for the Science Friday Initiative. The Director of Major Gifts will also work with the Development staff to plan and organize fundraising events.

This position will focus on growing our small portfolio of major donors. S/he will develop and execute a comprehensive annual plan for fundraising including directing the grant proposal process and devising strategies to increase major giving and making recommendations for reaching individual donors. Under the supervision and direction of the Executive Director this position will manage, support, and guide a small fundraising staff to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward the donors, funders, and prospects of the Science Friday Initiative.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of 6-8 years of major gifts experience with overall 10+ years in non-profit fundraising; preferably working in a similar non-profit health/medicine/technology/science organization. Applicants with planned giving or capital campaign experience are encouraged to apply. Proven track record in relationship building and solicitation of individual major donors and demonstrated ability to successfully identify and secure individual gifts.

Management experience, ability to supervise and engage staff, with a strong commitment to collaboration. Knowledge of creating annual plans and expertise with budgets. An ability to think strategically.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Ability to use fundraising databases and a familiarity with prospect research tools.
• Confidence to meet in person with donors and prospects
• Willingness and ability to travel to meet with donors and funders as needed, this includes occasional nights and weekends for fundraising events.
• A commitment to science, journalism, and education.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication.
• Strong organization skills with the ability to make decisions and delegate effectively.
• Commitment to team collaboration and communication
• Understanding of program budgets and financial projections
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight and on deadline
• Excellent time-management and prioritization skills
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and the Internet
• Knowledge of management database (Convio/Common Ground, Raiser’s Edge)

Application Instructions

Please send cover letter and resume to Danielle Dana, Executive Director, at danielle@sciencefriday.com. Deadline for submission is July 31. Applications will be reviewed in July and interviews will begin in early August. Position starts Sept. 1 or Sept. 15.

Job Type: Development/Fundraising
Organization Type: Nonprofit Organizations