Major Gifts Officer

POSITION PURPOSE:

Reporting to the Director of Development, the Major Gifts Officer will join a high-performing team working to expand philanthropic support from alumni and parent donors for Choate’s educational programs, facilities, and endowment. The Major Gifts Officer is responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of current and prospective donors capable of making gifts of $50,000–$1,000,000. This position requires regular travel and includes occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Manage and advance a portfolio of 150–200 major gift and planned giving prospects and donors (defined by gift capacity of $50,000 and above) within an assigned region
• Partner with the Director of Development to establish annual goals and develop and execute donor-centric strategies for each assigned prospect
• Travel extensively for individual donor visits and small group cultivation events
• Collaborate with development colleagues and volunteers to coordinate annual, capital, and planned giving strategies for prospects
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all donor interactions and activity within the CRM
• Prepare high-quality briefing materials, correspondence, proposals, and other donor communications
• Maintain a strong understanding of Choate’s strategic priorities, funding needs, and case for support
• Work both independently and collaboratively to build and sustain meaningful donor relationships

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred

PRIOR EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years of relevant experience in development or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated success in cultivating and closing major gifts; experience in a private secondary school or higher education setting preferred, or transferable experience managing high-level client relationships
• Experience integrating planned giving strategies into major gift portfolios, including securing bequest intentions and other deferred commitments
• Campaign experience preferred

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Commitment to the mission of an inclusive, highly regarded boarding school and enthusiasm for engaging in a close-knit, student-centered community
• Demonstrated success in all phases of major gift fundraising, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship
• Ability to incorporate planned giving strategies into donor conversations and advance legacy gift commitments
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to a range of constituents
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
• Results-oriented and strategic, with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and an appreciation for diverse perspectives
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with sound judgment, initiative, and a proactive approach
• Working knowledge of fundraising CRMs and Microsoft Office suite
• Professional presence, discretion, and sound judgment in all interactions