Strategist, Principal Gifts (New Donor Acquisition)

The Ocean Conservancy Inc

12d • Remote

About The Position

Ocean Conservancy is seeking a strategic and entrepreneurial Principal Gifts Strategist to expand our community of ocean champions. This part-time (25 hours per week), one-year position focuses on new donor acquisition—building enduring relationships with individuals whose philanthropy can power transformative progress for the ocean.

The Principal Gifts Strategist will identify and engage high-net-worth individuals new to Ocean Conservancy, cultivating their interest in our mission and securing principal-level commitments ($1M+ over time). With performance-based renewal potential, this position offers a unique opportunity to build the next generation of ocean philanthropists supporting solutions to climate change, ocean health and marine biodiversity.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of fundraising experience, with a strong record of securing major or principal gifts of $500K+; experience in prospecting or new donor acquisition preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to connect donors’ philanthropic values to high-ROI mission outcomes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with comfort facilitating discussions around mission-critical and complex environmental work.
• Self-starter with entrepreneurial spirit; able to prioritize, manage time effectively and meet ambitious targets in a part-time schedule.
• Skilled in donor management systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar) and prospect research tools.
• Deep commitment to Ocean Conservancy’s mission to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges—delivering science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the communities that depend on it.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Build and manage a portfolio of 50–75 new principal gift prospects through targeted research, outreach and qualification.
• Develop and execute individualized cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies that yield at least $3M in asks and $1M in booked revenue in the first year.
• Partner closely with executive leadership, program experts and gift officers to align donor interests with Ocean Conservancy’s highest-impact funding priorities.
• Create tailored proposals and engagement materials that translate complex ocean science and policy work into compelling philanthropic opportunities.
• Use strategic travel and virtual engagement to deepen relationships and advance donor partnerships.
• Maintain accurate donor records, moves management plans and performance metrics in the CRM system.
• Represent Ocean Conservancy’s mission, vision and values in donor conversations, presentations and events.
• Contribute to a collaborative, learning-oriented and results-driven fundraising culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees