Major Gift Officer: Individual Giving

Position Title: Major Gift Officer: Individual Giving

Date: November 2024

Department: Development Office

Reports To: VP for Advancement

Salary Range: $60,000-$67,999, based on experience

Status: Full-time, 12 month - Exempt

Primary Function: The Major Gift Officer is responsible for cultivating, managing, and stewarding a

portfolio of major gift donors and prospects to secure philanthropic support for

Alverno College. This role will focus on engaging donors who are passionate about

the College’s mission, educational programs, and priorities, including scholarships,

endowments, and leadership initiatives. The Major Gift Officer will play a key role

in advancing the College’s Major and Planned Gifts programs, contributing to the

growth of both major donor participation and giving society involvement. The

position offers an exciting opportunity to build long-term relationships with donors

at varying levels of giving, helping to cultivate them into significant supporters of

the College’s mission. As part of the Advancement Team, the Major Gift Officer will

work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve the College’s fundraising goals and

enhance relationships with donors, alumni, and the broader community.

Key Responsibilities

Donor Portfolio Management:

Actively manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects, focusing on individuals at varying

levels of giving. Develop and implement personalized engagement strategies tailored to each

donor’s interests, giving history, and philanthropic goals.

Discovery Calls and Cultivation:

Conduct discovery calls and meetings with new and prospective donors to assess their

philanthropic interests and identify potential for future major gifts. Work to qualify prospects, build

relationships, and cultivate them into major donors over time through personalized outreach and

engagement strategies.

Major Gift Solicitation:

Lead the solicitation process for major gifts, collaborating closely with VP of Advancement and

other colleagues. Tailor proposals and engagement strategies to align with donors’ passions and

the College’s funding priorities, ensuring that donors feel deeply connected to the institution’s

mission.

Scholarships and Endowment Funds: Assist with the stewardship of the College’s scholarship

programs and endowed funds. Ensure that scholarship agreements are up to date and that funds

are distributed in accordance with these agreements. Keep donors informed about the impact of

their gifts, with both annual and endowed scholarship funds. Collaborate with the stewardship

team to ensure ongoing, personalized communication with these donors.

Giving Societies and Donor Engagement:

Play an active role in cultivating, engaging, and stewarding members of Alverno College’s giving

societies. Develop tailored stewardship plans for society members, ensuring they are recognized,

engaged, and feel a strong sense of connection to the College’s leadership and mission. Create

opportunities for deeper involvement, such as special events, giving society communications, and

donor recognition opportunities.

Prospective Donor Engagement and Qualification: Actively engage with new and prospective

donors to assess their philanthropic interests, identify potential for major gifts, and qualify their

capacity and readiness to contribute. Build strong relationships with individuals at varying levels

of engagement, moving them through the cultivation cycle with personalized strategies that align

with their values and the College’s priorities.

Donor Stewardship and Retention:

Develop and implement comprehensive stewardship strategies for major donors and giving

society members. Provide regular impact reports, organize special donor events, and create

opportunities for ongoing engagement to ensure donors remain committed to the College’s

mission and vision.

Knowledge and Skills Required

Bachelor’s Degree Required

Passion for Alverno’s Mission: Enthusiasm for the College’s mission and a strong interest in

building relationships with donors. Eagerness to learn and grow in fundraising.

People and Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage and

build trust with donors, prospects, and colleagues in a positive and meaningful way.

Communication Skills: Clear and persuasive verbal and written communication, with the ability

to tailor messages to diverse audiences.

Self-Motivated and Goal-Oriented: Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet or

exceed goals.

Team Player: Collaborative spirit and the ability to work well within a small, tight-knit team. 

Growth Mindset: Open to learning new fundraising strategies and tools, with a proactive

approach to personal and professional development.

Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail, with the ability to manage donor portfolios and

maintain accurate records.

Tech-Savvy: Comfortable with CRM software, Microsoft Office tools, and a willingness to learn

new technologies as needed.

Why Alverno College?

Impact: At Alverno, you’ll be part of a passionate and dedicated community focused on

making a meaningful difference. Your work will directly contribute to the success of the

College and the students we serve, helping to advance an institution that is committed

delivering a transformational education. 

Unique Educational Environment: Alverno College offers a distinctive, abilities-based

educational experience, that focuses on equipping students with the tools and skill sets

they need to succeed professionally and personally. As part of our Advancement team,

you’ll be contributing to a college that is recognized worldwide for its innovative approach

to learning and that inspires students, faculty, and staff in a dynamic, collaborative

setting.

Growth: This role offers a fantastic opportunity for professional development and career growth

in major gift fundraising, donor relations, and strategic development. Alverno is committed to

supporting your ongoing learning and providing opportunities for advancement as you contribute

to the growth of the College’s philanthropic efforts.

Collaborative Culture: Join a vibrant and supportive team where your ideas and contributions

are valued. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the College, engaging in cross-

departmental efforts to achieve common goals, and making a lasting impact on the future of

Alverno College.