Major Gifts Officer

Brooklyn Law School; New York (NY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution in Downtown Brooklyn is seeking a Major Gifts Officer to lead a dynamic fundraising program. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with alumni and donors, fostering relationships that drive philanthropic support. The ideal candidate will possess strong relationship-building skills, a proven track record in securing significant gifts, and the ability to craft compelling cases for support. Join a vibrant community dedicated to advancing the mission of education and philanthropy, while collaborating with diverse stakeholders to enhance engagement and maximize giving potential. This is an exciting chance to make a meaningful impact in the world of higher education fundraising.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years in major gift fundraising, preferably in higher education.
• Demonstrated success soliciting six- and seven-figure gifts.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and secure gifts of $25,000 or more.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to align donor interests with institutional priorities.

Skills

Fundraising

Relationship Building

Communication Skills

Project Management

Stewardship Programs

Volunteer Management

Salesforce CRM

Prospect Identification

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Advanced Degree

Tools

Salesforce CRM

Job description

POSITION: Major Gifts Officer

REPORTS TO: Director of Development

STATUS: Full-time, Exempt

RANGE: $100,000 - $115,000

SUMMARY: Brooklyn Law School, an independent institution in Downtown Brooklyn founded in 1901, seeks a highly motivated and donor-focused fundraising professional to spearhead a metrics-driven major gifts program. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in higher education fundraising, excellent relationship-building skills, and the ability to meet and exceed ambitious philanthropic goals. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to deepen engagement with alumni, donors, and key stakeholders to advance the mission of Brooklyn Law School.

The Major Gifts Officer (MGO) will report to the Director of Development and play a key role in managing a major gift portfolio while helping build a culture of philanthropy across the institution. This position requires frequent collaboration with faculty, staff, students, and leadership to align donor interests with institutional priorities and maximize giving potential.

Responsibilities:

1. Portfolio Management:
1. Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major gift prospects, focusing on securing gifts of $25,000 or more.
2. Develop individualized strategies for donor engagement to ensure sustained support and loyalty.
2. Collaboration and Strategy Development:
1. Work closely with the Director of Development and other Advancement team members to achieve short- and long-term fundraising goals.
2. Prepare tailored materials, including briefings, proposals, and case statements, for donor meetings involving the Dean, faculty, and senior leadership.
3. Prospect Management:
1. Oversee moves management strategies to track donor progress and ensure consistent communication and follow-up.
2. Implement prospect identification techniques to grow and diversify the donor pool.
4. Cross-Departmental Engagement:
1. Partner with Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving to create events and initiatives that develop a pipeline of potential major donors.
2. Participate in alumni and student events to strengthen relationships and identify new opportunities for giving.
5. Volunteer and Stakeholder Engagement:
1. Work with alumni boards, regional groups, and leadership councils to foster a culture of giving.
2. Train and support high-level volunteers to engage in peer-to-peer fundraising efforts.
6. Stewardship:
1. Collaborate with the Donor Relations and Stewardship team to design thoughtful stewardship programs that recognize and engage major gift donors.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5–7 years in major gift fundraising, preferably in higher education. Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated success soliciting six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Familiarity with the legal profession or experience working with lawyers is highly desirable.
• Salesforce CRM experience is desired.
• Familiarity with the NYC donor landscape is preferred.
• Results-oriented with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting compelling cases for support.
• Strong relationship-building abilities with internal and external stakeholders.
• Expertise in planning and executing customized stewardship programs.
• Experience managing volunteers and facilitating peer-to-peer solicitations.
• Willingness to travel and attend events outside traditional working hours.

Brooklyn Law School values a diverse and vibrant community and affirmatively encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and life experiences.