Major Gift Officer

Waterloo Regional Health Network Foundation; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 86,700 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary range: $86,700 – $102,000

Vacation: 4 weeks + wellness days

Benefits + HOOPP pension

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Waterloo Regional Health Network Foundation in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, seeks a Major Gift Officer to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward donors capable of making transformative gifts. You will manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, collaborate with Foundation leadership, clinicians and volunteers, and advance fundraising initiatives that support local health care.

The role requires 3–5+ years in fundraising, experience with major gifts, and CFRE is an asset.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years in fundraising, major gifts or relationship management.
• Experience in healthcare/nonprofit is an asset.
• CFRE designation or working toward CFRE is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 100–125 major gift prospects and donors.
• Develop cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for each prospect.
• Lead major gift proposals, case statements, and impact materials.
• Document interactions and moves management in Raiser's Edge.
• Support capital campaigns and priority fundraising initiatives.

Skills

Donor cultivation

Portfolio management

Communication

Proposal writing

Strategic thinking

Raiser's Edge

MS Office

Education

CFRE designation

Healthcare nonprofit experience

Tools

Raiser's Edge

Microsoft Office

Job description

Reports To

Major Gift Team Lead

Location: Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario (Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Position Summary

The Major Gift Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of making significant philanthropic contributions to support priority needs of Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN). Working closely with Foundation leadership, physicians, hospital staff, and volunteers, the MGO manages a portfolio of major gift prospects and plays a key role in advancing transformational fundraising initiatives that enhance health care for 10% of Ontarians.

Key Responsibilities

Major Gift Portfolio Management

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 100–125 major gift prospects and donors.
• Develop customized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for each prospect.
• Conduct donor meetings (virtual and in person) to advance relationships and secure major gifts.
• Document all interactions and moves management activities in the donor database.
• Proactively identify and advance legacy giving opportunities among portfolio donors as part of holistic relationship management.

Donor Cultivation & Solicitation

• Lead the development of major gift proposals, case statements, and impact materials.
• Work with Foundation leadership and hospital clinicians to identify compelling funding opportunities.
• Prepare and present personalized gift requests in the $25,000–$1 million+ range.
• Support and participate in capital campaigns, priority initiatives, and special fundraising programs.

Stewardship

• Ensure timely and meaningful stewardship plans for all major donors.
• Coordinate recognition activities, impact reporting, donor tours, and engagement opportunities.
• Build long-term, mission-centred relationships that encourage continued philanthropic support.

Collaboration & Internal Engagement

• Partner with hospital leaders, physicians, program directors, and Foundation staff to align donor interests with hospital priorities.
• Provide guidance to senior leadership, board members, and volunteers involved in donor-facing activities.
• Participate in team planning sessions, strategy development, and campaign progress meetings.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate donor records, contact reports, and moves management tracking in Raisers Edge.
• Provide regular progress reports and forecasting to Foundation leadership.
• Support the Foundations overall development operations, including events, communications, and community engagement as required.

What Were Looking For

Education and Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in fundraising, major gifts, business development, or relationship management.
• Experience in a healthcare, hospital, or nonprofit environment is considered a strong asset.
• CFRE designation or working toward CFRE is an asset.

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to secure major gifts and manage a donor portfolio.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with high-net-worth individuals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and presentation skills.
• Strategic thinker with exceptional planning, organizational, and follow-through capabilities.
• High degree of professionalism, discretion, and ethical conduct.
• Proficiency with Raisers Edge and Microsoft Office.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends for donor meetings and events.
• Valid drivers license and access to reliable transportation for local donor visits.
• Police background check required.
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the WRHN Foundation and dedication to improving local healthcare.

What We Offer

• Salary Range: $86,700 – $102,000, commensurate with experience and success.
• Vacation: 4 weeks vacation plus 4 summer wellness days and additional float days
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, HOOPP defined-benefit pension, computer and mobile device provided.
• Work Culture: We offer a hybrid and flexible work environment, with regular in-person team strategy sessions and a minimum of two days per week in the office to support collaboration and connection.
• A mission-driven team where your voice matters and your professional growth is supported.

The Process

Were looking for someone who brings heart, hustle, and humility. If that sounds like you - apply in the way that best shows your passion and strengths. Whether thats a traditional resume and cover letter or something more creative (video, portfolio, or personal story), were excited to meet you.

We are committed to barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and encourage applicants to inform us of any accommodation they may require.

Please submit your application by Friday, August 14th at 5:00pm.