Senior Gift Officer, Henry Kendall Society

Union of Concerned Scientists; Cambridge; Remote; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nonprofit organization seeks a Senior Gift Officer to manage and grow its mid-level giving society. This role involves developing strategies for donor retention, overseeing a team, and ensuring effective outreach to enhance fundraising efforts.

Qualifications

• Experience in donor management and fundraising strategies.
• Ability to manage and mentor junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop goals and strategies for the HKS program.
• Implement targeted development strategies for donor engagement.
• Execute CRM database routines for donor management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Collaboration

Job description

Description

Senior Gift Officer, Henry Kendall Society

Permanent

Development

Union of Concerned Scientists

Remote

Bargaining Unit Position: No

*The expected start date for this role will be after July 16th, 2025*

Our Organization

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent nonprofit dedicated to applying rigorous science to develop solutions and advocate for a healthy, safe, and just future. We aim for a world where science guides policy, reduces risks, and improves lives.

For over five decades, our diverse team of scientists, engineers, economists, advocates, and community members has worked on pressing global issues—from climate change and sustainable development to fighting disinformation, promoting racial equity, and reducing nuclear threats. Our core values include:

• Science in service of people and the planet.
• Justice and Equity for all races and incomes, now and future generations.
• Courage to stand by science-based principles publicly.
• Integrity in examining evidence openly and honestly.
• Democracy by amplifying diverse voices in governance.
• Action to mobilize efforts for a healthier, safer, and more just world.

UCS's Development Program

Led by the Director of Membership, the Senior Henry Kendall Society Gift Officer manages the stewardship, cultivation, and solicitation of the Henry Kendall Society (HKS), UCS's mid-level giving society, aiming to maintain a 75% or higher retention rate, grow the donor base, and increase revenue. The society includes over 4,300 donors contributing $1,000 - $24,999 annually, raising approximately $7M each year. The role involves building an active portfolio focusing on leadership donors and family foundations in the $5,000-$24,999 range, as well as donors with potential for increased lifetime giving, including major and planned gifts. The position also supervises and mentors an Associate Gift Officer responsible for donors giving $1,000 - $4,999 annually through various channels.

The Position

The core responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Develop goals and strategies for the HKS program:

• Partner with the Membership Director to propose, develop, and implement programs that retain current members and attract new ones.
• Contribute to annual work plans and set revenue and membership goals, reporting progress regularly.
• Manage and mentor the Associate HKS Gift Officer, supporting their professional growth and performance.

Implement targeted development strategies:

• Collaborate with team members to review and update donor portfolios, stewardship plans, and cultivation strategies annually.
• Manage a portfolio of grant-making organizations and family foundations, ensuring compliance with submission and reporting guidelines.
• Create persuasive communication materials and proposals for donors and organizations, meeting all deadlines.
• Develop strategies for portfolio upgrades and personalized advocacy requests.

Implement outreach strategies for the entire HKS donor universe:

• Coordinate with the team to review and refine direct mail and digital solicitations.
• Oversee stewardship activities, including calls, emails, and notes, for new gifts.
• Engage targeted populations of lapsing and downgraded donors through personalized outreach.
• Work with the Events and Engagement team on content, invitations, and event staffing, including virtual and in-person programs.

Execute CRM database routines:

• Support database accuracy and maintenance, entering and updating donor records and actions.
• Use data and research to inform cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Ensure accurate listing of donors in reports and publications.

Other duties as assigned:

• Attend conferences, participate in training, and handle confidential data.
• Maintain knowledge of UCS programs and initiatives, including JEDI efforts.
• Represent UCS professionally, considering organizational reputation and goals.

People Management Authority

Foster a positive, inclusive work environment aligned with UCS values. Responsible for hiring, managing, and evaluating the Associate Gifts Officer, leading team meetings, and providing ongoing support and development.