Director of Major Gifts

CHESAPEAKE CONSERVANCY INC•Annapolis, MD

1d•$95,000 - $115,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Chesapeake Conservancy is a non-profit organization based in Annapolis, Maryland. We are a team of conservation entrepreneurs. We believe that the Chesapeake is a national treasure that should be accessible for everyone and a place where wildlife can thrive. We use technology to enhance the pace and quality of conservation, and we help build parks, trails and public access sites. The Director of Major Gifts is a senior frontline fundraiser responsible for driving major gift revenue in support of the Conservancy’s mission. This role focuses exclusively on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of making significant investments in our work. This is a high-impact, externally focused role suited for a self-motivated, goal-oriented fundraiser who thrives on building relationships, closing gifts, and contributing directly to organizational growth. This hybrid position that requires at least one day each week in the office.

Requirements

5+ years of frontline major gift fundraising experience with a proven track record of closing significant gifts
Demonstrated ability to meet and exceed revenue goals
Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills with a donor-centered approach
Highly self-directed, proactive, and results-driven
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Experience managing a portfolio and using a CRM to track activity and performance
Passion for conservation and alignment with the Conservancy’s mission

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of approximately 75–100 current and prospective major donors
Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward gifts of $10,000+
Set and achieve ambitious annual revenue goals aligned with organizational priorities
Conduct regular donor meetings and move prospects through the pipeline with clear strategy and follow-up
Partner with the VP of Development & Strategic Partnerships and senior leadership on top prospects and key solicitations
Develop and execute individualized engagement strategies that align donor interests with Conservancy priorities
Track all activity and revenue projections in the CRM and maintain strong pipeline discipline
Collaborate with communications and program staff to ensure compelling donor messaging and impact reporting
Represent the Conservancy at events and in the community to expand relationships and visibility
Support board engagement in major gift cultivation as appropriate