Director of Major Gifts

The Director of Major Gifts is a frontline fundraiser responsible for driving philanthropic growth by managing a portfolio of high‑impact donors. This role focuses on identifying, cultivating, and stewarding prospects capable of leadership annual, major, and planned gifts. As a key collaborator within the development team, the Director of Major Gifts aligns donor passions with institutional strategic initiatives to foster a vibrant culture of giving.

Summary Of Duties And Responsibilities

• Manage a targeted portfolio of 75-100 major gift prospects, developing bespoke “moves management” plans to transition prospects into committed donors
• Implement individualized strategies that align a prospect’s philanthropic goals with institutional needs, utilizing data and research to inform appropriate ask amounts
• Collaborate with the Director of Development and Giving Manager to draft compelling gift proposals, case statements, and donor‑facing materials
• Partner with the Director of Development Services to execute creative cultivation plans and ensure all activities, meetings, and outcomes are documented in the CRM for team‑wide transparency
• Support high‑priority campaigns, special initiatives, and fundraising events. Attend school and Advancement‑hosted events to build community presence
• Work alongside Development colleagues and volunteers to deliver high‑touch stewardship and impactful gift reporting

Essential Qualifications/experience

• Substantive progressive frontline fundraising experience with a proven track record of securing six‑ and seven‑figure gifts
• Building and developing effective relationships
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, highly organized and a problem‑solver, positive and friendly, strong people management and interpersonal skills
• High emotional intelligence, attentive listening, and the ability to build credibility with major prospect stakeholders
• Willingness to travel internationally and attend events outside of School hours and on weekends
• A steadfast commitment to the safeguarding and welfare of children

Desirable Qualifications/experience

• Advanced degree preferred
• Knowledge proficiency in Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge
• Knowledge and understanding of American and/or international educational institutions
• Embraces continuous learning and collaborative problem‑solving contributes creativity, initiative, and teamwork to a mission‑aligned development culture
• Experience training or managing fundraising volunteers and committees
• Ability to manage multiple relationships and projects simultaneously
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, goal‑driven environment and adjust to dynamic event schedules with ease
• Collaborative team colleague, proactive and capable of thriving in a fast‑paced, goal‑driven environment

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