Chief Major Gifts & Development Officer

mei-employment; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life and disability insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Paid holidays, plus vacation and sick

Job summary

Middle East Institute in Washington, DC is seeking a visionary Vice President of Development to lead MEI's fundraising strategy and revenue growth across major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, foundations, campaigns, events, and membership programs.

Reporting to the COO, you will guide development operations, donor strategy, and external engagement to advance MEI’s mission and expansion while managing the Development team and ensuring data-driven decision making.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of senior-level development leadership experience.
• Background in fundraising across major gifts, grants, and campaigns.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising strategy to grow major gifts, grants, campaigns, events, and memberships.
• Oversee the Development team, budgets, systems, and performance metrics.
• Provide executive oversight of campaigns and high-profile events, including conferences.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, corporate partners, foundations, and boards.
• Oversee grant prospecting, proposals, reporting, and compliance with program teams.
• Oversee development branding, communications, and donor-facing content.
• Oversee donor database management and coordination with finance for accuracy and compliance.

Skills

Strategic planning

Financial acumen

Data analysis

Executive communication

Public speaking

Negotiation

Team leadership

Donor stewardship

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Middle East Institute in Washington, DC is seeking a visionary Vice President of Development to lead MEI's fundraising strategy and revenue growth across major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, foundations, campaigns, events, and membership programs.

Reporting to the COO, you will guide development operations, donor strategy, and external engagement to advance MEI’s mission and expansion while managing the Development team and ensuring data-driven decision making.