Lead Major Gifts Specialist

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

500 University Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14607

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

700814 MAG-Advancement

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 114

Compensation Range:

$86,482.00 - $129,723.00

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE
Plans and implements a coordinated program of fundraising activities. Uses established relationship building skills to identify and cultivate new individual, corporate and institutional/foundation prospects. Establishes and effectively manages relationships with prospects. Designs and implements fundraising plans. Manages special events to involve and cultivate prospects. Collaborates with MAG and UR leadership and staff, and coordinates with other development and alumni relations staff. Identifies and oversees stewardship opportunities for major donors in portfolio.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collaborates with leadership and advancement teams to develop and execute strategies for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting gifts greater than $100k.
• Plans and executes events to engage donors and prospects and works closely with MAG staff and volunteers to support fundraising efforts.
• Manages a portfolio of 125 prospects and donors.
• Partners with regional University teams to enhance donor engagement and maximize impact.
• Conducts personal donor visits, maintaining consistent communication with donors and prospects.
• Utilizes donor management system to record interactions, manage portfolios, and track progress.
• Meet with prospects, members, volunteers, alumni, and donors, focusing on pipeline development and relationship building.
• Develops personalized solicitation strategies and works closely with institutional leadership, faculty/staff, and volunteers to ensure the effective cultivation and stewardship of major donors.
• Serves as a liaison to volunteer groups, overseeing activities, events, and fundraising efforts.
• Manages the preparation of reports, donor acknowledgments, and gift tracking for these groups.
• Ensures accurate monitoring of gift accounts and provides regular updates on donor contributions.
• Oversees the preparation of materials for solicitation letters, invitations, and customized memorial gift acknowledgments.
• Updates regional and donor engagement strategies to increase the quality and size of the prospect pool.
• Coordinates activities with other University advancement units, including leadership gifts, annual giving, alumni relations, and community-based programs.
• Documents donor strategies, interactions, and outcomes in the prospect management database.
• Participates in ongoing professional development, ensuring alignment with institutional fundraising protocols and best practices.
• Participates in MAG events, some external events, and other key institutional activities to strengthen donor relationships.

Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree Required
• 7 years of relevant experience is required
• Or a combination of education and experience. Required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Exceptional writing, communication, and interpersonal and relationship-building skills, plus impeccable attention to detail. Preferred
• Ability to think strategically and analytically and effectively close gifts. Preferred
• A collaborative, creative team player who is eager to contribute wherever needed. Preferred
• Highly organized and self-motivated with strong initiative. Preferred
• Ability to safeguard confidential information. Preferred
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity. Preferred
• Ability to work occasionally on weekends and evenings. Preferred
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