Director of Major Gifts
Reporting to the Director of Development & Alumni Affairs (DOD) and working closely with the Headmaster, the Director of Major Gifts (DMG) serves as a key leader, strategist, and senior fundraiser in the Development & Alumni Affairs Office, contributing to the design and implementation of a multi-year strategy focused on securing new and increased contributions to meet the school's fundraising objectives.
Specific Responsibilities
Specific Responsibilities
- Contributes to the design and implementation of short- and long-term fundraising goals and strategy, assisting the DOD with related oversight and management
- Identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards a portfolio of approximately 200 high net worth individuals, establishing long-term donor relationships and securing six- and seven-figure gifts
- Strives to travel 50 percent of the time, aiming for 10–15 prospect visits per month; organizes and staffs fundraising visits with the Headmaster, as appropriate
- Partners with the DOD to oversee management of major gift prospects and strategy, providing colleagues with leadership and guidance related to major gifts
- Contributes to the development of effective fundraising messaging and materials, collaborating with the Director of Communications, as appropriate; prepares reports, briefings, correspondence, proposals, and related documents
- Works collaboratively with other members of the Development & Alumni Affairs team and participates in engagement events and programs throughout the year
- Additional duties as assigned
Requirements
- Ten-plus years of experience in the development field, preferably in the independent school or college/university setting
- A minimum of five years of experience in a senior fundraising role, with demonstrated success soliciting and closing gifts at the six- and seven-figure levels
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with a variety of constituencies, including the Headmaster, Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, alumni, parents, and friends of the school
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong computer skills, and proficiency with development software systems (familiarity with Raiser’s Edge software a plus)
- Commitment to Groton’s mission, including its focus on access and inclusion, and the ability to communicate this mission effectively to constituents
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 50 percent of the time and work evenings and weekends, as needed
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Community safety is a top priority at Groton School, and all community members are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination.
- Ability to pass a background check
To Apply
Groton School is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity and seeks employees who reflect and support our mission-driven commitment to a diverse school community. The school complies with all government regulations regarding non-discriminating employment practices and, beyond that, provides an atmosphere that ensures all have the opportunity to succeed on their own merit, qualifications, and abilities. Groton School does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any characteristics protected by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
To apply, please send a cover letter and a resume to Debbie Andrews at deborahtandrews@comcast.net.
Groton School Mission: To inspire lives of character, scholarship, leadership, and service within a diverse, inclusive, and close-knit community.
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