Major Gifts Officer

Reports to: Vice President of Development
Staff reporting to this position: None
Department: Development
Position classification: Exempt, full time; Nonunion - Level 6
Work site: Hybrid (on-site two days per week, Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

Reporting to the Vice President of Development, the Major Gifts Officer is an important member of the Development department and will help support the Center for American Progress Action Fund’s individual giving efforts. The Major Gifts Officer will hold a portfolio of 100 to 150 prospects, targeting five- and six-figure prospects. The ideal candidate will have significant experience as a front-line fundraiser, demonstrated success with 501(c)(4) fundraising and major gift solicitations, and strong communication skills.

This position is ideal for a dynamic, results-driven, and well-organized development professional who is committed to a progressive policy agenda and American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country. In addition, this position will support the organization’s five crosscutting priorities:

• Building an economy for all
• Restoring social trust in democracy
• Advancing racial equity and justice
• Tackling climate change and environmental injustice
• Strengthening health

The Development department works with program staff at both the Center for American Progress, a 501(c)(3) organization, and the Center for American Progress Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization, to fundraise to support American Progress’ priorities and bold progressive agenda.

Responsibilities:

• Secure major gifts at the five- and six-figure levels.
• Work with other Major Gift Officers to craft individualized asks for blended gifts.
• Manage systems and software to track and cultivate donors and prospects, including the donor database and wealth screening tools.
• Manage an existing portfolio of 100 to 150 donors and prospects.
• Work with the Development department to align efforts and set goals.
• Create and implement moves management plans.
• Make direct, face-to-face solicitations and work with program staff to develop individualized donor strategies.
• Support the overall efforts of the Individual Giving team by providing portfolio development support, strategic counsel, and help with donor communications.
• Acknowledge major donors through public and private recognition.
• Track and report progress using specific metrics.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or equivalent experience is required.
• At least six years of relevant work experience, including front-line fundraising, working with individual donors, and experience with 501(c)(4) fundraising.
• Demonstrated success managing a portfolio of donors at the five- and six-figure levels.
• Demonstrated work experience and donor contacts in mission-aligned areas.
• Proven track record in fundraising from individuals.
• Demonstrated entrepreneurial ability to develop alliances and coordinate shared interests of all parties.
• Excellent problem-solving skills designed to meet the organization’s challenges.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with considerable experience in writing and presenting information to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to use data and CRM systems to set fundraising strategy and priorities, measure outcomes, and drive superior performance.
• Knowledge of various progressive philanthropic and political sectors, including racial equity, rights, justice, international affairs, public health, education, and democracy is desirable.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and prospect research skills.
• Strong interpersonal, mediation, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Familiarity with 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) regulations is a plus.
• Ability to work additional hours as needed to meet deadlines and manage workflow.
• Support for American Progress’ mission and commitment to a broad progressive agenda.

American Progress provides a competitive compensation and benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is not represented by a union. The ideally qualified candidate’s salary starts at $77,000.

We will continue to monitor COVID-19 and the levels of community spread and adjust plans as needed for in-office work. Any changes to our current hybrid work policy will be communicated at the time of hire. Updates will be posted on American Progress’ Jobs page.

https://www.americanprogress.org/job/major-gifts-officer-2/