Major Gifts Officer

Job Summary:

• The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a key member of the Development team which is responsible for securing significant financial support to help achieve the Mission’s annual fundraising goals. This role focuses on building and nurturing deep relationships with major donors, aligning their philanthropic passions with the Mission’s needs. The MGO will manage all aspects of the donor lifecycle, from identification and cultivation to solicitation and stewardship, ensuring a personalized and impactful donor experience.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Major Donor Relationship Management:

• Achieve annual fundraising targets by managing a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and other major donors.
• Develop and implement tailored strategies to engage, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, deepening their commitment to the Mission.
• Communicate the Mission’s impact compellingly and authentically, connecting donor interests with organizational needs.

Donor Engagement and Stewardship:

• Maintain and grow relationships with major donors through regular, meaningful interactions, including face-to-face meetings, calls, personalized communications, and special events.
• Keep donors informed about their giving impact, by providing updates on the Mission’s programs, financial needs, and strategic goals.
• Create and execute recognition plans to celebrate donor achievements, enhancing donor satisfaction and loyalty.

Strategic Planning and Collaboration:

• Partner with the CDO and Development team to develop strategic fundraising plans that align with organizational priorities and revenue goals.
• Actively participate in team meetings, sharing insights, offering ideas, and contributing to collective problem-solving.
• Provide input on fundraising strategies, campaigns, and initiatives, bringing a donor-focused perspective to planning discussions.

Prospect Research and Pipeline Development:

• Conduct research to identify and qualify new major donor prospects, expanding the pipeline of potential supporters.
• Utilize data and analytics to prioritize prospects, segment audiences, and tailor outreach strategies.
• Track donor interactions and progress through the gift cycle, maintaining accurate records in the CRM database.

Community Engagement and Representation:

• Represent the Mission at community events, speaking engagements, and networking opportunities to raise awareness and build connections.
• Serve as an ambassador of the Mission, sharing our story and inspiring others to support our work.

Development Team Support and Leadership:

• Support the CDO and Development team in meeting departmental revenue goals, collaborating to ensure overall success.
• Step into leadership roles as needed, providing guidance and support in the absence of the CDO.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and high-performing team environment, sharing best practices and learning opportunities.

Trends and Best Practices in Major Gifts Fundraising:

• Stay current on fundraising trends, major gift strategies, and best practices, continuously enhancing skills and knowledge.
• Attend professional development opportunities, such as conferences, webinars, and workshops, to bring fresh ideas and approaches to the team.

• City Union Mission Requirements:

• Be a born again, mature Christian able to clearly communicate the Gospel as opportunities arise during the workday. (1 Peter 2:21, 3:15)
• Have a desire to serve the Lord through widely varied responsibilities to advance ministry to the  homeless and the urban poor of Kansas City, with a compassionate heart.
• Agree to City Union Mission’s Statement of Ministry:
  • Be a genuine believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, as expressed by personal testimony and conduct.
  • Be a member in good standing of a recognized protestant, evangelical church for one year or more.
  • Have a genuine concern for the ministry of City Union Mission.
  • Have a minimum of one year of sobriety from alcohol and drugs and six months from tobacco.
  • Agree to abstain from alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and tobacco while employed by City Union Mission.
  • Have a lifestyle that is free of sexual sin as clearly defined in the Bible.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business, Communications, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in major gifts fundraising or high-level donor relations within the nonprofit sector.
• Proven track record of securing five- and six-figure gifts from individual donors, foundations, and corporations.
• Strong relationship-building skills with a donor-centric approach, able to engage and inspire high-net-worth individuals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate the Mission’s impact and needs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team, managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in CRM software and fundraising databases, with a data-driven approach to prospect management.
• Passion for the Mission’s work and commitment to its values.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinker
• Exceptional communicator and storyteller
• Results-driven with a strong work ethic
• Collaborative team player and positive contributor
• Adaptable, proactive, and solution-oriented

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, or related field.
• Six years nonprofit fundraising experience, preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting/standing/kneeling, etc.
• Must be able to operate a vehicle to attend events or other related functions

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to drive to our campuses in Kansas City and in Warsaw.