Director, Individual Giving & Major Gifts

Sanford Burnham Prebys; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanford Burnham Prebys is seeking a Director of Individual Giving who will manage a portfolio of 150–200 donor prospects and drive a minimum $1.5 million annual fundraising target. The role requires strategic cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for major and mid-level gifts, with strong donor communications and CRM documentation.

The DIG will collaborate with the Vice President of Philanthropy and Institute leadership, translating scientific priorities into donor-centered opportunities

Qualifications

• Eight or more years of progressive professional fundraising experience, with demonstrated success in major gift fundraising.
• Demonstrated success managing an individual donor portfolio and securing significant philanthropic commitments through personal cultivation and solicitation.
• CFRE certification preferred. California driver’s license may be required.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 150–200 individual donor prospects, balancing mid-level and major gifts.
• Achieve an annual fundraising target of at least $1.5 million.
• Develop and execute cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans aligned with funding needs.
• Lead moves-management strategies to advance relationships toward increased philanthropic support.
• Document donor interactions and portfolio activity in the CRM system.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on donor strategy and messaging.

Skills

Donor relations

Portfolio management

Communication

Strategic thinking

CRM experience

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CRM software

Job description

Sanford Burnham Prebys is seeking a Director of Individual Giving who will manage a portfolio of 150–200 donor prospects and drive a minimum $1.5 million annual fundraising target. The role requires strategic cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for major and mid-level gifts, with strong donor communications and CRM documentation.

The DIG will collaborate with the Vice President of Philanthropy and Institute leadership, translating scientific priorities into donor-centered opportunities