Director, Major Giving West (Southwest)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States, employing more than 15,000 staff members. The IRC's mission is to respond to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. The IRC aims to provide lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people worldwide, and it is committed to positively influencing the lives of those it serves. The organization is a force for humanity, and it seeks solutions-driven, passionate change-makers to join its efforts in creating a better future for individuals in need.

Job Overview:
The Director, Major Giving West (Southwest) will lead the IRC’s Major Giving program in the southwestern region of the United States, which includes areas such as the greater Los Angeles region, Southern California, New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and Utah. This position is critical in managing and developing regional markets with portfolios of high-net-worth individual donors, prospective donors, and suspects who have wealth capacity ratings ranging from at least $100,000 to $2.5 million. The Director will be responsible for crafting and implementing effective fundraising strategies for their portfolio while mentoring and guiding a team of fundraisers to optimize the size and impact of gifts to the IRC. The role requires a strong understanding of donor needs and performance, excellent communication and collaboration skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to offer creative solutions to enhance donor relationships. The Director will also be expected to travel and meet with donors and prospects across the Southwestern US region, achieving goals related to donor visits, solicitations, and closed gifts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will manage a small portfolio of Major Giving capacity donors, prospects, and suspects, focusing on retaining donors and increasing the size of gifts at the six and seven-figure levels. Responsibilities include crafting and implementing fundraising strategies for the Major Giving portfolio, traveling to meet with donors and prospects, and achieving specific goals and metrics related to donor engagement. Additionally, the Director will supervise a team of front-line fundraisers, providing mentorship and fostering an environment that encourages innovative approaches to donor relationship management. The Director will partner with the Senior Director to develop a strategic plan, set annual goals, and establish standards and procedures for effective donor engagement. Mentoring fundraisers and guiding their professional growth will also be a key responsibility, along with leading the entire Major Giving Southwest Team, which may consist of up to five individuals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 10 years of non-profit fundraising experience, with a strong emphasis on high-net-worth individual fundraising. A demonstrated history of being an empowering and supportive manager to front-line fundraisers is essential. Preferred qualifications include a consistent track record of securing six and seven-figure gifts from a complex portfolio of donors, experience in leading and supervising frontline fundraisers, and the ability to develop blended and multi-year funding opportunities. Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial, as well as the ability to develop creative donor strategies in collaboration with program staff or senior leadership. Adaptability to change in a fast-paced work environment while maintaining a focus on donor priorities is also important.

Educational Background:
While the job description does not specify exact educational requirements, candidates are typically expected to have a relevant degree in fields such as nonprofit management, business administration, or a related area that supports the skills needed for high-level fundraising and donor engagement.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in non-profit fundraising, particularly with high-net-worth individuals. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing complex donor portfolios and achieving significant fundraising goals. Experience in leading teams and mentoring fundraisers is also essential, as well as a history of securing substantial gifts from donors.

Languages:
The job description does not specify mandatory languages, but proficiency in English is likely required given the location and nature of the work. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in regions with diverse populations or for engaging with international donors.

Additional Notes:
The position offers remote or flexible work options, with a compensation range of $140,000 to $180,000 for US-based candidates. The pay range is influenced by various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC provides a comprehensive benefits package, including sick days, holidays, paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and adheres to professional standards that emphasize integrity, service, equality, and accountability.