Major Gift Officer Job Description: Sample Template

Major Gift Officers play a pivotal role in nonprofit organizations. They are responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting significant financial gifts from high-net-worth individuals and corporations. These individuals typically secure major gifts of $100,000 or more, but the exact amount can vary depending on the organization's size and fundraising goals. Due to the large gift size, major gift fundraising brings in 80-95% of an organization's donations.

Because this role is so critical to an organization's health, it's important that you find the right candidate for the role. Use the sample major gift officer job description to help you find the best candidate for your organization.

Major Gift Officer Sample Job Description

Use the template below to guide your organization’s Major Gift Officer job description.

Organization: [Organization Name]

Department: Development

Reports to: [Position]

About [your organization]: [Share information about your organization's mission, goals, and culture that would pique a candidate's interest in your cause.]

Job Summary:

The Major Gift Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gifts from high-net-worth individuals and corporations. This role requires exceptional interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of the organization's mission, and a passion for philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prospect Identification: Research and identify potential major donors who align with the organization's mission and have the capacity to make significant gifts.
• Relationship Building: Cultivate strong relationships with prospective and current major donors through personalized communication, meetings, and events.
• Gift Solicitation: Approach qualified donors to request major gifts, effectively articulating the organization's mission, impact, and fundraising needs.
• Donor Stewardship: Nurture relationships with donors after they have made a gift, ensuring their continued engagement and satisfaction.
• Portfolio Management: Manage a portfolio of [number of] major donors, tracking their giving history, interests, and communication preferences.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of [number] years of experience in fundraising or a related field.
• Proven track record of successfully soliciting major gifts.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Deep understanding of the organization's mission and goals.
• Passion for philanthropy and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in fundraising, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Experience working in a complex organization.
• Knowledge of donor databases and CRM systems.
• Certification in fundraising or philanthropy.

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary commensurate with experience. Competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample (e.g., a fundraising proposal) to [email address].

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Explore our other major gift fundraising resources on the Momentum blog.

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