POSITION SUMMARY

The Major Gifts Officer is a member of the University Advancement (UA) Team and reports directly to the Director of Major and Planned Gifts. The Major Gifts Officer will manage a major gift portfolio of a minimum of 60 individuals with the capacity and inclination to make gifts of $25,000 or more to support Dominican University’s strategic plan and funding priorities and develop a pipeline of lead gifts ($10,000+) . Managing a portfolio of current and prospective donors, the officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding philanthropic partnerships in support of student success, academic programs, and university priorities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop and execute personalized strategies for cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts. This includes the creation of briefing materials, proposals, and customized engagement plans.
2. Conduct regular, meaningful donor interactions through in-person visits, phone calls, and events that advance relationships and support fundraising goals.
3. Work with UA colleagues, as well as with faculty and other campus partners, to align donor interest with university priorities.
4. In collaboration with UA leadership, develop annual work plans and contribute to the overall fundraising strategy for the institution.
5. Maintain accurate and timely records of all donor interactions, activities, and solicitations in the university’s CRM system.
6. Work with UA team to properly acknowledge and recognize donors to ensure their continued support and engagement through a robust stewardship plan.
7. Represent the university at donor events and campus activities. Occasional evenings, weekend, and travel commitments are required.
8. Perform other related tasks and special projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of five years related fundraising experience required, with a proven track record of closing high five and six figure gifts.
• The ability and comfort to interact effectively with high-net worth individuals and business leaders are essential.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills. Outstanding strategic thinking and analytical skills, interpersonal skills, sound judgement, and experience in handling highly confidential information.
• Strong initiative, creativity, organizational ability, and attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze a problem and present a strategic solution.
• Proven ability to collaborate across departments and with senior leadership, serving as a bridge between donors and the organization while managing complex internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge or other CRM preferred.

A background screening is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to spend long durations of the workday sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times

SALARY AND FLSA STATUS:

• Salary: $ $73,000 – $83,000

• FLSA Status: Exempt– Full-time, 37.5 hours

BENEFITS:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Professional development opportunities.
• Tuition remission for employees and their dependents

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