Major Gifts Officer

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

TITLE:                           Major Gifts Officer

DEPARTMENT:           Development

REPORTS TO:             Development Director

GENERAL SUMMARY: The Major Gifts Officer will manage and cultivate relationships in a portfolio of existing major gift prospects and identify new prospects. The position requires that the candidate have the ability to empathize with donors and clearly communicate Phipps’ mission and purpose.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for managing and cultivating relationships within a portfolio of existing major gift prospects, as well as researching and identifying new prospects.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with individuals, businesses, organizations, and grant-maker through regular communication, meetings, and events.


• Ensure timely and appropriate stewardship of donors and prospects to enhance their connection with the organization, including writing compelling communications and grant proposals that align with donors' goals.


• Monitor and analyze prospect giving patterns to identify opportunities for increased donor engagement and contributions.  


• Collaborate with the Development Director to build out annual fundraising plans to align gift strategies with overall fundraising goals.


• Achieve annual fundraising and activities goals that result in long-term fundraising growth.


• Track and deliver regular donor-meeting reports to ensure that the database is updated with all donor communications, including but not limited to: annual giving records with biographically and meeting data; notes on cultivation, special events or fundraising programs; and grant management processes, compliance, expense tracking, and reporting deadlines.


• Collaborate with the Development Director and marketing team to create compelling messages and campaigns that resonate with donors.


• Stay updated on development and grant-seeking trends and best practices in the nonprofit sector


• Provide prospects with VIP tours, becoming familiar with Conservatory programming, docent classes and other material.


• Assist in appropriate local or regional special events.


• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Proven record of securing major gifts from individuals, corporations, organizations and grant-makers in a non-profit or comparable setting.


2. Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with potential donors.


3. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate the mission and impact of the organization effectively.


4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, and virtual meeting settings (Teams, Zoom)


5. Tessiture software knowledge a plus, or ability to develop Tessitura expertise.


6. Ability to work with volunteers from a variety of backgrounds, including political, philanthropic and business leaders.


7. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team environment.


8. Commitment to maintaining a high level of confidentiality.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

1. Physical mobility: sitting, standing, walking, lifting/carrying objects up to 30 pounds; manual dexterity to operate keyboard.


2. Must have acute hearing and be able to speak distinctly.


3. Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing, scheduling, organizing, planning.


4. Sensory requirement: Smile and maintain a cheerful outlook.


5. Ability to communicate and respond both in person and over the phone to the staff, public, media and board.


6. Ability to represent the Conservatory effectively and professionally to potential and mid-level donors.


7. Ability to work under deadlines and stress.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Ability to provide own transportation to perform principal responsibilities.


2. Ability to complete local travel required for the purpose of conducting research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of prospects.


3. Will require evening and weekend work.


4. Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification)

1. Bachelor’s degree in in public relations, communication, business, finance or related field


2. Minimum of three to five years’ experience in Development, fundraising or related field.


3. Proven record of success essential.

Revisions, additions, or deletions to this job description may be made at any point.