Advancement Officer (Major Gifts)

Canisius University • Buffalo, NY

2d • $75,000 - $75,000

About The Position

Canisius University is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Advancement Officer to support its fundraising efforts for Answer the Call: The Campaign for Canisius University. This transformative initiative is dedicated to securing critical philanthropic resources to elevate the student experience and strengthen the university's commitment to delivering a world-class Jesuit education.

The Advancement Officer will report to the Vice President for Advancement and collaborate with university leadership and volunteers to secure major gifts ($25,000+) from individuals and corporations in support of the university’s strategic priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required (advanced degree preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in major gift fundraising or a related field (e.g., sales, marketing, or relationship-building).
• Experience in cold calling, donor cultivation, and solicitation strategy development.
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and build relationships with high-level donors.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with fundraising CRM systems (Ellucian CRM Advance a plus).
• Proficient in MS Office Suite.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.
• Collaborative team player with strong organizational skills.
• Commitment to the Catholic and Jesuit mission of the university.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.
• Eligible to work in the United States (this position is not eligible for sponsorship).

Responsibilities

• Promote Canisius University’s mission, vision, and campaign priorities to potential donors.
• Serve as a member of the Advancement gift officer team responsible for soliciting and securing philanthropic support for Canisius University’s Answer The Call comprehensive campaign, a nine‑figure initiative advancing the University’s strategic priorities.
• Proactively solicit and close major gifts in support of annual, capital, and comprehensive campaign goals.
• Manage a portfolio of prospective individual and corporate donors in Western New York and other assigned regions, including a willingness to travel outside of New York State 3–5 times per year.
• Develop and implement individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies, and create customized proposals to secure significant philanthropic commitments.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of prospect activity, solicitation efforts, and stewardship outcomes in the University’s CRM system.
• Participate in Advancement team meetings and provide regular updates on donor engagement, pipeline progress, and fundraising results.
• Represent Canisius University at events and in the community, serving as an ambassador to strengthen relationships and advance philanthropic outcomes.

Benefits

• Salary: $75,000 annual salary
• Comprehensive Insurance Benefits – Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Long-Term Disability available the first of the month after the employee’s date of hire
• 403(b) with Company Contribution – Plan for your future with confidence – contribution from the university is available after one year of employment
• Paid Time Off – Includes vacation time, personal time, sick time, and paid holidays
• Tuition Benefits – Available for full-time employees and their qualified dependents

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level