Regional Advancement Director/Major Gifts

Responsible for developing, cultivating and stewarding relationships with major gift prospects and donors as assigned to secure resources in support of Emma Willard’s mission and fundraising priorities and increase levels of engagement utilizing effective prospect qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies. Responsible for developing and executing strategies for solicitation that maximize the prospect’s giving potential while aligning Emma Willard’s priorities with donor intent. This position requires extensive travel to engage with and solicit prospects, including meeting with constituents and staffing both on-campus and off-campus events. We seek someone who is committed to navigating today’s changing and diverse landscape to help the school promote and nurture diversity, equity, and inclusion. The School encourages candidates from under-represented groups to apply, as well as those who have demonstrated experience with diverse populations. Specific Responsibilities: Maintain an active portfolio of 100 to 150 prospects, moving them through the fundraising pipeline (identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship) Design and execute cultivation and solicitation strategies to secure $50,000+ gifts from alumnae, friends, and parents. Collaborate with the director of donor relations to ensure timely and accurate stewardship Maintain complete and timely records of contacts with prospects and database hygiene Prepare proposals for prospects Coordinate with annual giving staff on annual fund solicitations. When necessary, coordinate with alumni relations special projects and events, and other assignments in support of the advancement program Expectations for Remote Working Arrangement Position provides for the opportunity to work remotely. Remote work requires collaboration with other team members during standard business hours and will be required to report to our Troy, NY, campus for meetings and events. It is expected that remote employees will attend monthly Division Meetings as well as Alumane Reunion yearly. It is also expected that remote employees will make every effort to engage in the life of Emma Willard, which may include attending campus events such Revels receptions, commencement, and other events as needed. Remote arrangements such as this are reviewed annually and based on the needs of the school and performance. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree. A minimum of 5-10 years experience in major gift fundraising or related professional experience, including at least 5 years of demonstrated success in soliciting and closing six- and seven-figure gifts in support of a nonprofit institution Strong organizational, interpersonal, writing and communication skills required. Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities simultaneously. Ability to work independently and creatively within established guidelines, while at the same time functioning as a member of a team in a complex fundraising organization. Personal intellectual skills necessary to articulate institutional needs to various constituencies and to talk broadly about the importance of Emma Willard’s mission in the world today. Appreciation for the value of an independent school education for girls. Ability to synthesize and articulate the priorities of the school and match them with the values and interests of individual prospects. Ability to travel 60-70% of time and meet with significant numbers of major gift prospects. Proficiency with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge or other CRM software. Preferred Preference given to candidates with ten or more years of development experience in independent schools or higher education. Knowledge of planned giving vehicles is preferred. If remote, preference is given to candidates based in NYC, Boston or areas within easy access to Troy, NY. Salary $115,000 - $135,000 based on education and experience.