Major Gifts Manager

Major Gifts Manager

Job Description

The Major Gifts Manager is a full-time, exempt position that will play an essential role in growing philanthropy at Fort Worth County Day. Reporting to the Director of Advancement, the Major Gifts Officer is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of prospects capable of making gifts of $50,000 or more. The position will work with the Advancement team, administration and staff in helping to deepen relationships with existing donors and broaden the base of major gift prospects. The MGO will cultivate philanthropy through personalized engagement, in-person meetings, written solicitations, consistent follow-up and participation in school events. 

Principal Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of mid to high level major donors, leading personalized cultivation, solicitation and stewardship activities
• Demonstrate exceptional presence and skill in navigating complex donor conversations, including high-level and multi-year solicitations
• Serve as a trusted partner and School ambassador, effectively communicating the School’s mission, impact and funding priorities
• Draft compelling proposals, briefings, reports and correspondence to support donor engagement and solicitations
• Recruit, train and guide volunteers to play an active role in major gift fundraising and campaign initiatives
• Collaborate with colleagues across annual giving, alumni relations and advancement services to enhance donor pipeline development and identify leadership-level annual giving prospects
• Maintain accurate and timely records of donor strategies, contacts and progress in Raiser’s Edge
• Represent FWCD at donor events, cultivating and engaging prospects while remaining current on School initiatives
• Demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and sensitivity in all donor interactions
• Other assignments as indicated by the Director of Advancement.

Competencies: 

• Must have excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
• Ability to think and plan strategically and creatively
• Demonstrated experience to recruit, develop and lead volunteers
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with others
• Must have high integrity, positive and energetic presence, adaptability and sense of humor in fast-paced environment
• Must be able to maintain absolute confidentiality of sensitive information
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (particularly Word, Excel, and Adobe Creative Suites) is essential
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge preferred

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in fundraising
• 3 three years of experience in major gifts fundraising
• A proven record of cultivating, soliciting and securing gifts of $50,000+. 

Equal Opportunity Employer / Statement of Inclusivity:

Fort Worth Country Day is an Equal Opportunity Employer that maintains a policy of nondiscrimination with respect to all employees and applicants for employment. The ideal candidate should possess a thoughtful approach and knowledge of intercultural communication and inclusion of underrepresented groups. Employment decisions at FWCD are based on merit, qualifications, abilities and performance, and are subject to the academic and business requirements of the School. The FWCD Inclusivity Statement confirms: We believe that understanding and respecting differences not only inspires compassion and empathy, but also fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity. We embrace the diverse cultures, experiences and perspectives that comprise and enhance our learning environment. We commit to sustaining and growing an intentionally inclusive community.

Fort Worth Country Day is a co-ed, junior kindergarten through grade 12 college-preparatory day school with approximately 1,100 students and 250 faculty and staff. The School seeks to promote inclusivity and retain a diverse faculty. The 104-acre campus offers excellent facilities for academics, arts and athletics. Faculty and administration nurture a collegial professional environment in which innovation is encouraged. Opportunities for ongoing professional development are exceptional. Fort Worth Country Day is proud of its school community where students, parents, faculty, staff and administration join together to develop an effective and enjoyable place to teach and learn.

About Fort Worth Country Day and the City of Fort Worth:

Fort Worth Country Day earned the distinction of being ranked one of the Best Companies to Work for in Fort Worth in 2018.  Fort Worth ranks as one of the top 12 largest cities in the United States and is known for its vibrant arts, music and cultural life. The Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan region is home to over 6.5 million people. More information about the School is available at www.fwcd.org.