Director of Principal Gifts

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 addressing the root causes of poverty and conflict, providing assistance in areas such as economic development, disaster response, and social justice. Their mission is to empower individuals and communities to overcome challenges and create lasting change, making the world a better place for all.

Job Overview:
The Director of Principal Gifts is a pivotal role within Mercy Corps’ High Impact Philanthropy team, tasked with securing significant financial contributions to support the organization’s global mission. This position reports to the Senior Director of High Impact Philanthropy and is responsible for developing and executing strategies for a portfolio of high-net-worth donors capable of making gifts of $250,000 or more. The Director will engage with senior leadership, program teams, and development colleagues to create exceptional donor experiences and secure both unrestricted and strategically aligned restricted gifts. This role requires a deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape, experience in engaging ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI), and the ability to manage complex relationships with finesse and credibility. The Principal Gifts portfolio is crucial for enabling Mercy Corps to respond effectively to global crises and advance sustainable development solutions. The Director must be adept at articulating the organization’s mission and crafting compelling cases for flexible funding while also navigating the intricacies of restricted giving and collaborative initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of 30-50 ultra-high-net-worth donors and prospects with the capacity to make principal-level gifts of $250,000 or more.
• Utilize network mapping, research, engagements, and executive travel to expand the principal gift pipeline, with new business representing approximately 25% of the portfolio.
• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with donors through exceptional relationship management, compelling communications, and consistent follow-through.
• Navigate complex gift structures, including planned giving, multi-year asks, and blended gifts, as well as innovative giving vehicles such as Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), cryptocurrency, family foundations, and complex assets.
• Develop and implement highly customized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies, including CEO engagement, meetings, global site visits, and private briefings.
• Collaborate with a Senior Account Manager to accurately track and measure progress toward financial goals and other key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Contribute to broader High Impact Philanthropy strategies to enhance Mercy Corps’ private sector funding base and elevate donor experiences.
• Partner with colleagues across programs, finance, and compliance to identify and steward restricted opportunities, ensuring timely allocation and reporting of gifts.
• Stay informed about Mercy Corps’ mission and funding priorities, as well as key issues and trends in international aid and global development to inspire and inform donor engagement. 1
• Commit 5% of time to learning activities that benefit both Mercy Corps and personal development.

Required Qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in principal or major gift fundraising, with a proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts from ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
• Demonstrated success in managing a high-value, high-risk portfolio.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage high-level donors, board members, and senior leaders effectively.
• Familiarity with various giving vehicles (e.g., DAFs, giving circles, family foundations, bequests) and knowledge of the philanthropic community in key cities such as the Bay Area, Seattle, and New York.
• A strong understanding of and interest in Mercy Corps’ mission and/or international development and humanitarian response, with experience in a global nonprofit preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into compelling cases for support.
• Strong interpersonal skills—empathetic, humble, confident, and persuasive.
• Highly organized, results-driven, and detail-oriented, with experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to manage portfolios.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability and willingness to travel as required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a preference for candidates holding advanced degrees in nonprofit management, business administration, or related disciplines. Educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in fundraising principles, donor relations, and organizational management.

Experience:
Candidates should possess at least 5 years of relevant experience in principal or major gift fundraising, demonstrating a strong ability to secure significant financial contributions from ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Experience in managing complex donor relationships and navigating high-stakes fundraising environments is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with additional language skills considered a plus. Proficiency in languages relevant to Mercy Corps’ operational regions may enhance a candidate’s profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve travel to meet with donors and stakeholders. The role is based in Washington DC, but candidates from other locations such as the Bay Area, Seattle, or New York may also be considered. Mercy Corps is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning and development, encouraging team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional growth activities.