Major Gifts Officer

Position Overview The Leadership Gift Officer will play a strategic role in cultivating leadership and major gifts, primarily from alumni and parents, capable of giving $5,000 to $50,000 annually. They will lead efforts to enhance and expand Family Circle membership in conjunction with the director of major gifts and the major gifts team. This position requires extensive travel, estimated about 25% of the time. Responsibilities Manage a portfolio of leadership and major gift prospects, focusing on individuals with the capacity to donate $5,000 to $50,000 annually. Conduct monthly prospect trips and meet with approximately 130 donors to cultivate and solicit gifts in support of College priorities. Meetings can be both in person and virtual. Assist the director of major gifts and major gifts team in growing the Minerva Scholarship program for annual scholarship funds. Champion and promote the Family Circle, cultivating and retaining key philanthropic donors, and developing strong relationships with members to foster continued and increasing support. Implement tailored strategies for recognition, cultivation, and communication to deepen donor connections and inspire increased giving at leadership and major gift levels. Manage relationships with College leadership and create opportunities for meaningful engagement with Family Circle members. Develop and execute an annual operating plan for the major gifts office, and staff College Relations events as needed, including Homecoming, Family Weekend, and Reunion. Contribute to other campus initiatives and key college priorities as opportunities arise. Perform other duties as assigned by the director of major gifts and vice president of college relations. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and/or a combination of relevant education, training, certifications, and/or work experience. Three years of successful fundraising experience at an institution of higher education or comparable fundraising settings, with a track record of securing gifts and commitments of $2,000 or more. Ability and willingness to travel monthly, work occasional weekends, and participate in evening events as required; a valid U.S. driver license. Experience managing and collaborating with diverse volunteer groups. Demonstrated results‑oriented approach and strategic problem‑solving skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally diverse learning community of students, alumni, faculty, and fellow professionals. Proven ability to meet and exceed the expectations of faculty, students, guests, and colleagues. Ability to exercise exceptional judgment, ensure strict confidentiality, and demonstrate outstanding professionalism in a range of situations. Compensation and Benefits Annual salary range: $70,000 to $80,000. Generous vacation, sick, and personal time; winter recess break in addition to paid holidays. Healthcare: medical (PPO & HDHP), dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending and dependent care accounts. Free on‑campus fitness facility access and discounts for on‑campus wellness programs. Pre‑ and post‑tax participation in a 403(b) retirement plan. Salary continuation program in the event of disability. Tuition exchange background check policy compliance. Location Schenectady, NY Employment Eligibility and Background Check All finalists for hire will undergo a background check that includes education, employment, and criminal convictions. Union College participates in E‑Verify and will verify your authorization to work in the United States. Equal‑Opportunity Employer Union College is an equal‑opportunity employer and is strongly committed to student and workforce diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, national origin, religion, religious belief, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities who request such accommodations. #J-18808-Ljbffr