Major Gifts Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is an international organization that focuses on reproductive health and rights, population challenges, and sustainable development. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and other partners to improve the lives of women and girls globally. UNFPA is committed to advocating for the rights of women and girls and addressing population issues through comprehensive programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Major Gifts Consultant position at UNFPA is a critical role aimed at enhancing the organization's financial sustainability by engaging High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), family offices, and wealth asset managers. The consultant will work closely with internal portfolio managers across various sectors, including foundations, corporate partnerships, and individual giving, to cultivate and secure transformational gifts. This position requires a strategic approach to donor engagement, ensuring that UNFPA is positioned as a compelling philanthropic investment. The consultant will be responsible for identifying potential donors, developing personalized engagement strategies, and facilitating high-touch interactions to secure major gifts that align with UNFPA's mission and goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Major Gifts Consultant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Donor Identification & Cultivation: Identify and build a pipeline of potential HNWIs, wealth asset managers, and family offices that align with UNFPA’s mission. Develop detailed profiles and engagement strategies for priority prospects. Utilize personal and professional networks to secure introductions and foster relationships with influential philanthropists.
• Strategic Engagement & Solicitation: Collaborate with portfolio managers to align outreach strategies and maximize synergies. Create and execute personalized engagement plans for major gift donors, ensuring a clear path from identification to solicitation and stewardship. Design and present compelling funding proposals that effectively communicate UNFPA’s impact and funding needs. Facilitate high-touch donor interactions, including one-on-one meetings, events, and personalized communications.
• Collaboration & Internal Capacity Building: Train and mentor UNFPA’s internal teams on best practices in major gift fundraising and donor stewardship. Establish processes for identifying and engaging HNWIs, family offices, and wealth asset managers in collaboration with the broader Private Sector Civil Society Branch team. Contribute to the development of UNFPA’s long-term major gifts strategy, incorporating lessons learned and emerging philanthropic trends.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Philanthropy, Non-Profit Management, Finance, or a related field. Additionally, they should have at least 7-10 years of professional experience in major gift fundraising, philanthropy, or wealth management, specifically focusing on HNWIs, wealth asset managers, and family offices. A proven track record of securing six and seven-figure gifts from these entities, preferably within an international development context, is essential. Strong networking abilities and donor relationship-building skills are crucial, along with knowledge of best practices in philanthropy, donor psychology, and strategic fundraising. The ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural and mission-driven environment is also required, along with strong communication and presentation skills to effectively articulate UNFPA’s impact to high-level donors.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Business Administration, Philanthropy, Non-Profit Management, Finance, or similar disciplines. This advanced education is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of major gift fundraising and donor engagement effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least 7-10 years in major gift fundraising, philanthropy, or wealth management. Candidates should have a strong focus on engaging HNWIs, wealth asset managers, and family offices, with a proven track record of securing substantial gifts. Experience within an international development context is preferred, as it provides valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities in this sector.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of UNFPA's work. Additional languages may be beneficial, particularly those relevant to the regions where UNFPA operates, to enhance communication with diverse donor bases and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Major Gifts Consultant position is initially offered for a duration of 6 months, with the potential for extension based on performance and program needs. The role may involve remote work and international travel as required. This position is critical for UNFPA's fundraising efforts and offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on global reproductive health and rights initiatives. Interested candidates should submit their applications, including a CV and a short motivation letter, to the provided email address by the specified deadline.