Principal Gift Officer: Major Donor Leadership

Smithsonian Institution; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 122,000 - 158,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithsonian Institution seeks a Principal Gift Officer to advance fundraising efforts within the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. You will cultivate high-capacity donors, collaborate with leadership, and drive strategies for major gifts, annual giving, and stewardship to meet ambitious campaign goals.

Based in Washington, DC, this permanent, full-time role requires deep fundraising expertise, exceptional relationship-building, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams while ensuring

Qualifications

• Requires mastery of professional fundraising techniques and understanding of the current philanthropic market.
• Strong oral presentation skills to engage donors and negotiate significant gifts.
• Skill in developing written materials to recognize and encourage the organization's donors.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse donors.
• Skill in analyzing individuals and institutions to develop prospect portfolios and achieve goals.

Responsibilities

• Program Management: secures contributions by cultivating productive relationships with donors and managing the portfolio.
• Prospect Management: manages activity for the portfolio to increase giving and expand donor base.
• Supervision: provides leadership and supervision of the Advancement program and staff, with performance guidance.

Skills

Fundraising

Donor relations

Prospect management

Leadership

Communication

Job description

Smithsonian Institution seeks a Principal Gift Officer to advance fundraising efforts within the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. You will cultivate high-capacity donors, collaborate with leadership, and drive strategies for major gifts, annual giving, and stewardship to meet ambitious campaign goals.

Based in Washington, DC, this permanent, full-time role requires deep fundraising expertise, exceptional relationship-building, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams while ensuring