Major Gifts Officer

CJE SeniorLife (CJE) is dedicated to helping older adults live with dignity, purpose, and connection. Guided by Jewish values and a deep commitment to compassionate care, CJE supports seniors and their families through every stage of aging. For more than 50 years, CJE has been a trusted leader in the Chicago community, providing a comprehensive continuum of services including healthcare, residential living, social engagement, counseling, and community-based support that empower individuals to maintain independence and experience meaningful quality of life. CJE fosters a culture grounded in respect, compassion, collaboration, and innovation, creating an environment where both clients and staff are valued and inspired by the impact of their work. CJE is seeking a dedicated and results-driven Major Gifts Officer (MGO) to advance the agency’s mission by securing and stewarding significant philanthropic support from individuals and families. This role focuses on cultivating meaningful, long-term relationships with donors who share CJE’s commitment to empowering older adults to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. Reporting to the VP and Chief Development Officer, the MGO will manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, developing and executing personalized engagement and solicitation strategies to deepen relationships and increase philanthropic investment. Working collaboratively with leadership, program staff, and volunteers, the MGO will help articulate CJE’s vision and impact, ensuring donors feel connected and inspired to make a difference. This hybrid role (two remote days per week) offers opportunities for professional growth and expanded leadership within the organization. CJE Senior Life is an equal-opportunity employer. We strive to recruit and employ the most qualified personnel and provide equal opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex. Manage a portfolio of 100-150 major gift prospects Identify, research, and qualify new prospects, and develop solicitation strategies for each one Steward donors by engaging in regular meetings, personalized outreach, and mission-centered engagement opportunities Secure major gifts ($5,000+), multi-year commitments, and planned giving intentions In partnership with CJE’s grants and marketing teams, prepare compelling proposals, cases for support, and donor materials Coordinate with CEO, C‑Suite, and Board on donor strategy and solicitation Assist the VP & CDO in setting agendas for Resource Development Committee meetings and follow-up with committee members Ensure timely acknowledgement, recognition, and stewardship of all major gifts Communicate donor impact through stories, reports, and updates Participate in CJE’s annual gala, donor cultivation events, small gatherings, and mission-focused tours Represent CJE SeniorLife at community events, professional gatherings, and partner organizations Qualifications & Skills 10+ years of experience in major gifts, individual giving, or relationship-based fundraising Experience in social services, healthcare, senior services, or Jewish communal organizations highly preferred Proven ability to design and execute effective fundraising strategies and grow philanthropic revenue Knowledge of the Chicagoland Jewish Community Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey empathy, compassion, and professionalism Strong understanding of donor motivations related to aging, caregiving, and community impact Proven ability to supervise, motivate, and guide team members toward shared goals Experience providing strategic leadership, setting priorities, and driving team accountability Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Donor CRM; Salesforce experience a plus #J-18808-Ljbffr Evolve Giving Group