Job Summary:
The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is a dynamic and mission-driven position that is a vital piece to theAdvancement and Development team. The MGO will play a pivotal role in cultivating and securing significant philanthropic support to advancethe college’s mission and strategic priorities. This position involves building and nurturing relationships with alumni, parents, andfriends capable of making major gifts, particularly those at the $25,000 level and above.
Donor Engagement and Major GiftsSolicitation Essential Functions:
- Develop and implement personalized strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and stewardmajor and deferred gift prospects.
- Manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors, ensuring regular, meaningful interactions to deepenrelationships and secure gifts.
- Work closely with the Vice President of Institutional Advancement and other team members todevelop and implement fundraising strategies.
- Collaborate with college leadership to align donor interests with institutionalpriorities.
- Assist in the planning and execution of capital campaigns and other fundraising initiatives as needed by theadvancement department.
- Develop and manage fundraising objectives, schedules, and timelines in coordination with the AdvancementTeam.
- Ensure timely and personalized acknowledgment of gifts, including recognition in giving societies such as the President’sCircle and Heritage Roll of Honor.
- Provide donors with updates on the impact of their contributions, fostering a culture ofgratitude and continued engagement.
- Conduct research to identify new major gift prospects and assess their giving potential.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of donor interactions and gift histories in the college’s CRM system. (Jenzabar Advancement)
- Strong analytical skills, analyzing past fundraising efforts and community trends to inform future strategies.
- Serve asa member of the Advancement and Alumni team.
- Support the mission, vision, and values of Bethel College.
- Satisfy theduties of a Mandated Reporter relating to Title IX and the Bethel College Equal Opportunity, Harassment, & Non-Discrimination Policy andProcedures (as directed following the completion of basic employee training).
Supervisory Responsibility:
- May supervise Employment Experience student employees
Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree is required; advanced degree preferred
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in major gift fundraising or a relatedfield, preferably within higher education or nonprofit organizations.
- Proven track record of securing five and six figure giftsfrom individual donors, foundations, and corporations.
Certifications & Licensure:
Minimum Necessary Skills:
- Commitment to the mission and values of Bethel College
- Exceptionalinterpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. Strong written andverbal communication.
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meetdeadlines.
- Proficiency in fundraising databases and CRM software platforms is a plus.
- Ability to work independently andas a part of the collaborative team.
Physical Demands:
- Minimal lifting (up to 40 lbs.) and reaching
- Operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as telephone, calculator, copy machine, and printer for extended periodsof time
- Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one classroom or building location to another
- Ascending anddescending stairs
- Ability to perform tasks both sitting and standing for extended periods of time
- Ability to functionwell in a standard office setting
- Medium/indoor work environment
Work Environment/Environmental Condition:
All the essential job functions are subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level ofknowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as anexhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Individuals may be required to perform other job-related instructions asrequested by the supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation. This position description is not all-inclusive and may change at theoption of the (supervisor or department head). Any major change will result in the position being reviewed for reclassification.