Senior Major Gifts Strategist

University of Saint Joseph; West Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Saint Joseph is seeking a Senior Leadership Gift Officer reporting to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement. You will independently manage a portfolio of donors, cultivate relationships, and grow financial support across all areas of the University.

Responsibilities include managing a 100–150 donor portfolio, conducting regular visits, crafting solicitations, collaborating with leaders, and using Raiser's Edge to forecast revenue and meet goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• Ten+ years fundraising experience in higher education or relevant alternate experience strongly preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication with external constituents.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of 100–150 prospective and current donors through cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.
• Conduct regular face-to-face or virtual visits to build trust-based relationships and align donor passions with USJ priorities.
• Lead gift discussions, prepare proposals, draft gift agreements, and close major financial commitments.
• Partner with board members, institutional leaders, and faculty to develop opportunities and support targeted initiatives.
• Use Raiser's Edge to gather, record and forecast revenue and meet performance goals.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Written & verbal communication

Negotiation

Sales skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

MS Office

Excel

Blackbaud Raiser's Edge

Job description

The University of Saint Joseph is seeking a Senior Leadership Gift Officer reporting to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement. You will independently manage a portfolio of donors, cultivate relationships, and grow financial support across all areas of the University.

Responsibilities include managing a 100–150 donor portfolio, conducting regular visits, crafting solicitations, collaborating with leaders, and using Raiser's Edge to forecast revenue and meet goals.