Director of Major Gifts

Position Overview:

The Director of Major Gifts is a full-time position, responsible for the development, management, and implementation of major gift strategies and efforts for University Advancement. Assist in all components required to secure financial contributions for the university, including campaigns, the annual fund, planned giving, endowment, and other special projects.

Essential job responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Plan and direct major gifts strategies and efforts. 
• Cultivate and steward relationships with selected major donors and key people to help meet the financial goals of the institution. 
• Assist in soliciting and securing major gifts for the annual fund, endowment, estate gifts/planned giving initiatives, university special projects, and campaigns. 
• Make five face-to-face donor contacts per week. 
• Work with department staff to assist in raising funds through events, Eagle Giving Day, individuals, and direct mail. 
• Cultivate and grow parent giving through strategic planning, events, and relationships. 
• Work closely with data team to identify qualified prospects for donor cultivation. 
• Provide regular reports/updates on the progress of goals. 
• Because our community is a significant part of our mission and the development of our students, all employees act as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ by actively partnering with the University to disciple students in growing intellectually and spiritually, and with Northwestern Media to lead people to Christ and nurture believers to mature in their faith.

Secondary job responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Assist with miscellaneous department duties as requested by supervisor. 
• Maintain an active involvement and visibility where appropriate in the community and professional, local, and national organizations.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree, required 
• Minimum of five years of fund-raising experience within a similar institution (preferably higher education or non-profit organization), required 
• Continually nurture a personal relationship with Jesus Christ; serve as a consistent witness for Jesus Christ; maintain a kind, Christ-like attitude in dealing with and ministering to people within and outside of Northwestern; and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern’s mission, doctrinal statement, and Declaration of Christian Community.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate and interact effectively with a variety of people in a professional, confidential and tactful manner 
• Ability to cultivate and maintain relationships 
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule, working evenings and weekends when necessary 
• Ability to secure and maintain a current, valid driver’s license and automobile 
• Ability to travel a minimum of 40% of the time with some out-of-state travel 
• Ability to be goal-oriented with strong planning, organizational and leadership skills 
• Knowledge of current trends in fund-raising activity 
• Basic computer proficiency 
• Excellent communication skills 
• Ability to pass a background check upon hire and periodically throughout the course of employment

Salary Range: $81,000 – $90,000

Benefits offered for full time positions include:

• Traditional health benefits (including medical, dental & vision) 
• 403(b) Plan + Employer Match 
• Tuition Benefits 
• Paid Time Off 
• A team committed to an Uplifting & Unwavering future