Major Gifts Officer

Reporting to the Development Director and as a member of the Development team, the full-time Major Gifts Officer is responsible for maintaining and growing a solid base of individual donors. This position is primarily responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gifts through F2F visits and events. Will manage a portfolio and retain, and increase, donor support moving them up the ladder of support.

Direct reports:  None

MAJOR GIFTS (90%)

• Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, close and steward major gifts through direct personal contact and visits

• Execute moves management approach to your portfolio and develop custom strategies for each donor to generate new and higher levels of giving, recording detailed relationship activities in CRM system (Altru)
• Manage a portfolio of 100+ individuals building and maintaining strong relationships leading to increased giving—re-acquire past donors and acquire new donors
• Offer tailored giving options that align with donor interests and financial goals
• Organize and support donor recognition events and legacy society gatherings.
• Coordinate an effective program for recognition, involvement, and stewardship of major and special gifts
• Meet annual goals for meaningful connections, solicitations, closed gifts, amount raised
• Work with Board, staff, and volunteer committee to achieve fundraising goals

PLANNED GIVING (10%)

• Play an active role in the planned giving program by identifying and cultivating potential planned gift donors
• Support the collaboration with legal, financial, and estate planning professionals to facilitate planned gifts
• Assist in the development of planned giving collateral

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position.

This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

SKILLS

• Proficient in Word, Power Point, Excel, and other related software
• Experience with MS Office products required and experience with Blackbaud software a plus
• Willingness to learn other software as needed
• Use of copy machines, postage machines, telephone, and other general office equipment
• Collaborative working style utilizing strong organzational and customer service skills
• Demonstrated and thorough knoweldge of current development practices

ABILITIES

• Be a passionate advocate for nature to articulate the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center

• Communicate effectively and professionally including oral, written, and listening methods
• Manage time and multiple priorities to meet deadlines
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external contacts
• Exhibit good judgement, honesty, integrity, and responsibility

• High school diploma and commensurate experience or Bachelor’s degree preferred

• This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity.

• Work is primarily performed on-site, indoors in an office environment and outdoors in the nature preserve. Occasional remote work acceptable.
• Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.

• Mission Support: Inspiring Conservation through personal experiences, education, and care for the land.
• Essential Qualities: Must enjoy nature, be energized by finding creative solutions, and possess a sense of humor, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Background Checks: Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of BCI and FBI background checks.  Background checks are conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state law, under code 5104.013.
• CPR & First Aid: Certification must be obtained and maintained throughout employment.
• Professional Learning, Development, and Required Training:  Employees shall engage in ongoing professional learning and development as well as shall complete ongoing required training relevant to safety, certification, and best business practices.
• Special Events: From time to time, employees shall be required to support special events which may fall outside of the normal work schedule including weekends/evenings.