Philanthropy Officer

American Friends of the Hebrew University; New York (NY); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Generous time off and holiday policy

Job summary

A leading philanthropic organization in New York seeks a Philanthropy Officer to manage major gifts, develop strategic fundraising plans, and engage high-net-worth donors. The ideal candidate has a strong background in frontline fundraising, particularly within Jewish philanthropy and higher education. This role involves cultivating relationships and identifying new prospects while communicating the mission impact effectively. Competitive salary of up to $150,000 plus comprehensive benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of frontline fundraising experience in relevant sectors.
• Proven success in securing five- and six-figure major gifts.
• Strong relationship-building skills with high-net-worth individuals.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a major gift portfolio.
• Design and execute strategic fundraising plans.
• Identify and qualify new prospects using research tools.

Skills

Fundraising success

Relationship-building

Communication skills

Strategic focus

Knowledge of Jewish philanthropy

Job description

3 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

In partnership with Lindauer, American Friends of the Hebrew University (AFHU) is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Philanthropy Officer to help advance the mission of one of Israel’s premier academic institutions.

This role offers the opportunity to be a key player in a growing development team and make a tangible difference through meaningful philanthropic partnerships.

Based in New York and supporting the Northeast Region (Pennsylvania to Maine), the Philanthropy Officer will work collaboratively with the Executive Director and national colleagues to cultivate, solicit, and steward five- and six-figure gifts.

The region presents extraordinary opportunity, with deep ties to Israel, strong Jewish communal networks, and vibrant professional sectors including law, finance, and real estate.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a major gift portfolio, securing five- and six-figure contributions from high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, and next-generation philanthropists.
• Design and execute strategic fundraising plans with a focus on the New York market, collaborating with regional and national colleagues to align goals and messaging.
• Identify and qualify new prospects using research tools and networks to expand the donor pipeline.
• Plan and lead high-impact donor engagement activities, including parlor meetings, faculty visits, and major events that showcase the University’s research and mission.
• Serve as a mission-driven ambassador, effectively communicating the impact of Hebrew University and engaging donors through personalized, informed outreach.

The ideal candidate is a motivated self-starter with frontline fundraising success, deep familiarity with Jewish philanthropy, and a passion for Israel and higher education. This position offers the chance to work within a mission-driven, metrics-oriented culture, supported by national leadership and resources.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of frontline fundraising experience, ideally in higher education, medical, scientific, or Jewish communal organizations.
• Proven success securing major gifts (five- and six-figure) from individuals and family foundations.
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills, with the ability to engage high-net-worth donors, lay leaders, and institutional partners.
• Self-starter with strategic focus, comfortable managing a portfolio independently in a fast-paced, metrics-driven environment.
• Deep connection to Israel and higher education, with familiarity with the Jewish philanthropic landscape in the Northeast and New York market.

Compensation

• Salary up to $150,000, based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, and 403(b) retirement plan.
• Generous time off and holiday policy, plus access to employee assistance programs and wellness resources.

Lindauer, a global search and talent firm, has been retained to conduct this search on behalf of the American Friends of the Hebrew University. To apply or nominate a candidate for this role, please visit the Lindauer website at https://www.lindauerglobal.com/.

Seniority level

• Executive

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• General Business, Strategy/Planning, and Other

Industries

• Philanthropy and Higher Education