The Leadership Gifts Officer is responsible for finding the ARE's largest prospective donors; creating relationships with them to discover which area(s) of ARE they are most passionate about; soliciting them; and then closing our largest gifts. Building and stewarding relationships with these ARE members and donors are at the heart of this position. This position will report to the Development Director.
Responsibilities (included but are not limited to):
Identify, cultivate, solicit, and then steward prospective donors who are capable of making gifts of $25,000 or more
Manage a portfolio of at least 100 prospects - visiting, calling, and otherwise maintaining relationships year-round
Prepare and present results in reports for Development Director, Executive Director, and Board of Trustees annually and as requested
Coordinate prospect research program
Work with Flock Leaders to manage flocks
Lead regular Development Team meetings
Be familiar with the top fundraising priorities of ARE's various program areas
Organize a Board of Trustees Thank-a-thon at least once per year
Attend appropriate ARE Conferences, Meetings, and Fundraising events to initiate and deepen donor relationships
Work with the Board and Administration to create and track restricted endowment policies
On an ongoing basis, work
with Directors and Managers to maintain a "menu" of
tangible, quantifiable projects and associated
price tags that can then be discussed with prospective
donors. These items must be in line with manifesting
the ARE Strategic Plan
Work with these same people to develop strategies to contact and solicit prospects for donations to their program areas
Travel throughout the Tidewater area and selected US regions to visit donors and prospects
Develop and share lists of prospective donors attending conferences and going on tours.
Other related activities
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in a subject related to development/philanthropy; or
An equivalent combination of education and experience; and
At least three years of experience in Development or related fields; and
Major gifts fund-raising experience strongly preferred
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Leadership Gifts Officer must have and demonstrate:
Exceptional communication skills: written, verbal, and interpersonal
Enthusiasm, creativity, people-orientation, and organization
Knowledge of charitable giving options and effective major gifts strategies
Comfort with and a proven track record of making successful major gift solicitations
Being a team player
Familiarity with the Internet, Microsoft Office software (esp. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), and databases
High degree of emotional intelligence and maturity - demonstrating adaptability, engagement and enthusiasm
A good sense of humor
Knowledge of and appreciation for the Edgar Cayce philosophy
Scope and Impact of the position:
This position has a far-reaching impact on the organization. A large portion of the ARE's operating funds come from these gifts and the implementation of virtually all of the organization's long-term plans depends on success in this area. This person will work closely with ARE Directors and Trustees, influential prospective donors and community members, and hundreds of ARE donors and members. This person will personify ARE to many people and must live up to this important responsibility.
Physical Requirements:
There is also a good deal of travel involved in this position, so the person must be up for the rigors of plane travel plus s/he should have a car and be able to drive.
