Principal Gifts Officer

University of the District of Columbia•Washington, DC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Gifts Officer provides senior-level leadership and execution for the University of the District of Columbia’s (UDC) major and principal gifts program. This role is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding high-capacity donors capable of making gifts at the $25,000 level and above, with a focus on securing six- and seven-figure commitments. Reporting directly to the Chief Advancement Officer, the Principal Gifts Officer serves as a key strategic partner in advancing UDC’s philanthropic priorities. The role operates with a high degree of autonomy and judgment and works closely with the President, Cabinet, academic leadership, and external stakeholders to drive transformational giving aligned with institutional goals. This position plays a critical role in building a robust pipeline of major and principal gift prospects, strengthening long-term donor relationships, and elevating the University’s overall fundraising capacity and visibility.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required
Eight (8) or more years of progressive experience in major and/or principal gifts fundraising or related field
Demonstrated success securing gifts in the $25,000 to six- and seven-figure range
Proven ability to engage high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and foundations
Strong strategic thinking, relationship management, and communication skills
Proficiency with fundraising CRM systems (Salesforce or Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge preferred)
Experience working with senior leadership and boards

Responsibilities

Manages a portfolio of approximately 75–100 high-capacity prospects and donors.
Develops and executes comprehensive strategies for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Personally solicits and closes major and principal gifts through high-touch engagement strategies.
Leads the development of tailored proposals, naming opportunities, and investment cases aligned with donor interests and University priorities.
Designs and implements a comprehensive major and principal gifts strategy aligned with UDC’s strategic plan and campaign priorities.
Partners directly with the Chief Advancement Officer and President on principal gift strategy and top-tier donor engagement.
Serves as a strategic advisor on pipeline development, prospect movement, and fundraising performance.
Collaborates with deans, faculty, and leadership to translate institutional priorities into compelling funding opportunities.
Carries significant revenue responsibility, with annual expectations typically ranging from $2 million to $5 million+, including major and principal gifts.
Tracks progress toward goals and adjusts strategy in collaboration with the Chief Advancement Officer.
Ensures accurate and timely documentation of donor activity and pipeline progress in CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge).
Leverages data analytics tools (e.g., Evertrue, ResearchPoint) to inform strategy and forecast revenue.
Prepares high-level reports, dashboards, and briefing materials for senior leadership.
Leads high-level stewardship strategies for principal and major donors, ensuring consistent engagement and impact reporting.
Collaborates across advancement, communications, and alumni relations to deliver coordinated donor experiences.
Supports long-term donor retention and progression to higher levels of giving.
Contributes to a high-performing, collaborative advancement culture.
Represents the University with professionalism in external engagements.
Supports campaign planning, institutional initiatives, and executive engagement strategies.