Director of Major Gifts

Professional Education International   Chicago, IL   Full-time     Education
Posted on May 15, 2023

Professional Education International (PEI) is a dynamic Non-Profit Association and Event Management Company that provides leadership and guidance to professionals and universities in high-technology industries and the corporate business world through services such as educational conferences, technology demonstrations/exhibitions, virtual conferences and workshops, digital media, and on-line education.

PEI manages several 501c3 non-profit Foundations and Public charities with the following focuses:

  • To promote the use of technology for the betterment of humanity, with a focus on the wireless industry, broadband infrastructure, and the Internet.
  • To support the minority-serving academic community to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • To drive the advancement of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Summary:

The Director of Major Gifts is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive major gifts program that includes identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major donors. The Director of Major Gifts will work closely with the organization's leadership team, board members, and other key stakeholders to establish and achieve fundraising goals. The candidate must be a detail-oriented, highly motivated individual with considerable initiative and a talent for building relationships with potential donors. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive major gifts program, including strategies for identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major donors.
  • Collaborate with other departments to identify significant gift opportunities, including planned giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation grants.
  • Build and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, developing and executing customized strategies for each donor.
  • Prepare compelling proposals, reports, and other communications to solicit major donor gifts and ensure timely and appropriate recognition and stewardship.
  • Work closely with board members, volunteers, and other key stakeholders to identify and engage potential major donors and to secure their support for the organization.
  • Track and report on major gifts revenue and progress towards fundraising goals and provide regular updates to the President/CEO and other senior leaders.
  • Stay informed about trends and best practices in major gifts fundraising and incorporate new ideas and strategies into the organization's fundraising efforts.
  • Manage and mentor staff responsible for major gifts fundraising, providing leadership and support to help them achieve their goals.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • At least seven years of experience in major gifts fundraising, with a proven track record of success in identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donors.
  • Strong leadership and management skills, with experience managing staff and collaborating with senior leaders.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with donors, board members, and other stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a commitment to collaboration and consensus-building.
  • Knowledge of fundraising software and databases and the ability to analyze data and use it to inform fundraising strategies.
  • A deep commitment to the mission and values of the organizations, with a passion for fundraising and a desire to impact the communities served.