Director, Major Gifts - Southwest

National Multiple Sclerosis Society • Houston, TX

86d • $140,000 - $165,000

About The Position

The Director of Major Gifts is responsible for managing a regional portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, with a focus on securing six- and seven-figure transformational gifts and contributing to national fundraising campaigns. This role leads donor acquisition and pipeline growth by partnering closely with regional staff and leadership and working with the Prospect Research team to identify and cultivate new prospects. A key expectation of this role is the proactive and ongoing development of a robust portfolio-through strategic research, attendance at key events, and strong collaboration with colleagues across departments. Acquisition is critical to the long-term success of this position, and the Director is expected to consistently engage new donors and broaden the pipeline. The Director oversees all stages of the donor lifecycle, from identification to stewardship, and collaborates cross-functionally to ensure alignment with the organization's national fundraising strategies. Using data and donor insights, the Director develops targeted engagement plans, contributes to revenue forecasting, and implements strategic stewardship efforts in partnership with Donor Relations to deepen donor engagement and increase revenue growth.

Requirements

• Demonstrated and relevant fundraising experience with advanced understanding of prospect qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Record of leadership and accomplishment in fundraising, including pipeline development and acquisition planning.
• Able to assess staff talent, mentor, and train others toward a shared vision.
• Proven ability to support broad and technical fundraising campaigns.
• Extensive nonprofit experience with increasing leadership responsibility.
• Track record of implementing innovative fundraising strategies.
• Strong ability to perform under pressure and handle criticism professionally.
• Exceptional project management, strategic planning, and negotiation skills.
• Advanced CRM expertise, leveraging data analytics to drive decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Manage a regional portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, focusing on securing six- and seven-figure transformational gifts.
• Build and strengthen the portfolio proactively through strategic research, attendance at key events, and collaboration with colleagues and volunteers.
• Drive donor acquisition and long-term pipeline growth, leveraging internal partnerships and the Prospect Research team.
• Stay current on the organization's national and global funding opportunities and priorities.
• Support and execute the collective responsibility for national fundraising campaigns.
• Oversee all stages of the donor lifecycle from identification through stewardship.
• Partner cross-functionally with regional staff, internal key stakeholders, and volunteers.
• Participate in regular portfolio reviews to refine strategy and maximize donor potential.
• Collaborate with leadership and key internal stakeholders to craft compelling cases for support.
• Align cross-functionally within Development to create a cohesive donor experience.
• Implement strategic stewardship plans in partnership with Donor Relations.
• Provide fundraising insights and contribute to revenue forecasting.
• Utilize CRM and additional tools effectively for timely and accurate data management.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off Plan
• Paid Holidays
• 401k Retirement Savings Plan with Society match
• Commuter Benefit Plan
• Comprehensive Health & Welfare benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision
• Flex Spending Accounts
• Life Insurance
• Disability Coverage
• Spring Health Membership offering free therapy and professional coaching

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Social Assistance
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees