Leadership Gift Officer

Kenyon College, a premier liberal arts institution, seeks an exceptional Leadership Gift Officer to serve as a key partner in the execution of our annual fund strategy. Our mission is to provide transformative educational experiences that empower students to think critically, engage deeply, and make meaningful contributions to the world. Kenyon's recently concluded the largest, most comprehensive campaign in its history: “Our Path Forward” campaign surpassed its initial $300 million goal, raising $532 million from nearly 23,000 donors, including 62% of alumni. The comprehensive fundraising effort secured over $138 million for endowment growth, with significant allocations for scholarships, experiential learning, and annual operations. With its strong financial foundation, vibrant community of engaged alumni, and commitment to educational excellence, Kenyon offers its professional staff an inspiring and supportive environment where their work makes a tangible difference in students' lives.

Position Overview

The Leadership Gift Officer (LGO) is a pivotal front-line fundraiser responsible for building relationships with Kenyon alumni and securing leadership-level annual fund gifts. This role connects directly with donors where they are, geographically and in their relationship with Kenyon, bringing the College’s story to alumni and bringing alumni perspectives back to campus. While seated in the Office of Annual Giving, the LGO will work closely and collaboratively with the division’s Major Gift office and the AVP for Development, and will regularly attend Development Officer travel and prospect meetings.

Work Environment

• Hybrid work model (2-3 days on-campus, flexible remote options).
• Travel Expectations: 
  • Approximately 50% travel (regional and national)
  • Travel expenses fully reimbursed
  • Mileage and accommodation costs covered

Primary Responsibilities

Annual Fund Development

• Manage a roster of 120-300 prospects with a goal of securing $1M in leadership gifts to the Kenyon annual fund.
• Conduct 20 gift solicitations and 10 face-to-face visits monthly (some may be virtual).
• Focus on increasing donor participation at the $2,500+ leadership giving level.
• Build meaningful relationships with alumni across different regions.

Relationship Building

• Serve as a bridge between alumni and the College.
• Listen to and understand alumni perspectives and interests.
• Communicate institutional priorities in personalized, compelling ways.
• Represent Kenyon at regional events and gatherings.

Technological Expectations

• Proficiency required in: 
  • Slate for Advancement (CMS)
  • Microsoft Office and Google Suite
  • Asana for Project management
  • Digital communication platforms

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree.
• 3-5 years fundraising or related experience.
• Proven track record in donor relationship management.
• Advanced communication and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional organizational abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education fundraising.
• Knowledge of liberal arts educational funding models.
• Advanced degree or related certification.

Professional Growth Opportunities

• Annual professional development budget.
• Opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration.
• Support for fundraising certification programs.

Performance and Evaluation

• Quarterly performance reviews.
• Key Performance Indicators: 
  • Annual fund leadership gift totals
  • Discovery visits
  • Number of new/retained leadership donors
  • Major gift referrals
  • Annual professional development planning

Kenyon College is a nationally prominent, private liberal arts college where academic excellence goes hand in hand with a strong sense of community and close relationships among students and professors.

Compensation and Benefits

Salaries at Kenyon are competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition to an attractive salary,