Director of Advancement-Major Gifts

Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences•Yakima, WA

1d•$67,200 - $107,500•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Advancement – Major Gifts reports directly to the Executive Director of Advancement and plays a pivotal role in advancing the university's mission by securing transformative philanthropic contributions. This role involves identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donors to achieve ambitious fundraising goals, including securing six- and seven-figure gifts. The successful candidate will manage a portfolio of high-value prospects through personalized outreach, relationship-building, and strategic solicitation efforts, leveraging deep insights into donor motivations and philanthropic trends.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree OR an equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the essential functions of the position
1-3 years relevant experience
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build genuine rapport with high-net-worth individuals
Strong understanding of fundraising principles, best practices, and moves management
Demonstrated success in securing six and seven-figure gifts
Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a proven capacity to manage multiple priorities
Strong listening skills
Ability to work in a team and flexibility to work with others in a variety of circumstances
Ability to solve problems by analyzing issues and creating action plans
Ability to work with and manage different computer programs and databases
Ability to schedule activities and/or meetings

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the development leadership team to design and implement major gift fundraising strategies that align with organizational objectives.
Portfolio Management: Maintain and manage a portfolio of major donor prospects, leveraging CRM tools such as Raiser’s Edge to track interactions, progress, and giving potential.
Prospect Identification & Research: Conduct detailed research to identify prospective donors with significant philanthropic potential and develop tailored engagement strategies.
Relationship Building: Establish and nurture meaningful relationships with major donors through regular communication, in-person meetings, and customized engagement plans.
Cultivation & Solicitation: Develop compelling proposals that clearly articulate the university’s mission and impact. Lead solicitation efforts to secure major gifts, achieving annual fundraising targets of $1M–$2.5M in countable gifts.
Leadership Engagement: Partner with board members, the president, deans, and program leads to identify, engage, and secure commitments from high-value donors.
Event Management: Participate in, and occasionally lead, special events designed to cultivate, engage, and solicit major donors.
Donor Stewardship: Implement robust stewardship plans to acknowledge and thank donors, keep them informed of gift impact, and foster ongoing engagement and loyalty.
Performs other related duties as assigned and based on departmental need.