Major Gifts Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries, employing more than 5,000 staff members worldwide. The organization focuses on providing humanitarian aid, fostering economic development, and promoting social justice, with a mission to create a better world through innovative solutions and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Major Gifts Officer is a pivotal role within the High Impact Philanthropy team at Mercy Corps, reporting directly to the Director of Major Gifts. This position is primarily responsible for expanding private donor support by cultivating, engaging, and soliciting high-net-worth individuals based in the United States. The Gift Officer will manage a portfolio of donors and prospects who are capable of giving between $10,000 and $100,000, focusing on retaining and upgrading current supporters while also acquiring new donors. This role requires a strong ability to articulate Mercy Corps’ mission and build compelling cases for unrestricted giving, necessitating knowledge of various giving vehicles and comfort in engaging with a diverse range of donors through multiple communication channels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Major Gifts Officer will lead and manage a regional portfolio of 100-135 individuals capable of making significant contributions. Key responsibilities include cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding portfolio donors with an emphasis on flexible and unrestricted funding. The officer will also engage prospective donors to secure their first gifts and guide them towards increased and sustained giving, meeting established KPIs. The role involves deepening donor engagement through exceptional relationship management and compelling narratives for support. Additionally, the officer will collaborate with the Director of Major Gifts on proactive prospect discovery, utilizing network mapping and research to grow the major gift pipeline within the Western United States. The officer will set annual goals and develop personalized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans for assigned donors, prioritizing personalized touchpoints such as face-to-face meetings and tailored communications. Staying informed about Mercy Corps’ priorities and key issues in the international aid community is essential for effective communication with donors and prospects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 4 years of experience in major gifts or private fundraising, demonstrating a strong track record of soliciting five- and six-figure gifts. A Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to develop and implement targeted donor strategies in collaboration with colleagues and program staff. Successful relationship building, donor engagement, and upgrading gifts are critical skills for this role. A passion for Mercy Corps’ mission, along with a solid understanding of international development and humanitarian work, is essential. Excellent communication and presentation skills, strong interpersonal skills, and exceptional organizational abilities are also required.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree is required for this position, although equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to fundraising, nonprofit management, or a related field that supports the responsibilities of the Major Gifts Officer.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in major gifts or private fundraising. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of successfully soliciting significant donations and managing donor relationships effectively. Experience in a global organization is considered a plus, as it provides valuable context for understanding the complexities of international development and humanitarian efforts.

Languages:
While the primary language for this position is English, proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial, particularly in regions where Mercy Corps operates. However, English fluency is mandatory for effective communication with donors and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location within the United States. Mercy Corps emphasizes the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, and the organization is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of background. Team members are expected to engage in ongoing learning activities, dedicating 5% of their time to professional development that benefits both themselves and Mercy Corps. The organization also prioritizes safeguarding and ethical practices, ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.