The Director of Donor Engagement & Major Gifts raises support for and advances United Way’s mission of improving lives by sustaining and growing relationships which lead to leadership, deferred, and major gifts. The Director plans and manages cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation of planned giving donors (Cornerstone Society) and major donors (Tocqueville Society $10,000+) and prospects in workplace and non-workplace sectors.
S/he builds upon almost a century of philanthropic success by leading UWGPs work related to growing transformational philanthropy in support of the organization’s strategic plan. Additionally, the Director strengthens UWGPs long-term sustainability by developing a pipeline of loyal donors who will maintain United Way high on their list of philanthropic priorities now and in perpetuity through planned and deferred giving.
This outward facing, results-oriented role requires a high-energy, values-driven leader who has the demonstrated ability to build strong, mutually beneficial relationships. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional professionalism and discretion.
This position leads and participates in cross-department projects to deliver on United Way’s strategies.
- Set direction for and achieve annual and multi-year revenue goals and performance targets for the Tocqueville Society.
- Recruit, manage, and leverage volunteer Tocqueville Chairs by setting goals and supporting their efforts to grow the Tocqueville Society.
- Plan and manage the cultivation, stewardship and solicitation of major donors (Tocqueville Society $10,000+) and prospects in workplace and non-workplace sectors.
- Identify, qualify, and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects.
- Coach and support staff and volunteers in the qualification, solicitation, and closing process.
- Track key performance metrics to ensure the major gifts program is operating effectively.
- Develop strategies for the implementation of key elements of the Tocqueville Society, such as member events (in partnership with Events Team).
- Connect with colleagues across the United Way system and other non-profits to ensure best practices.
- Coach and inspire RD team members on techniques for major donor prospect identification and qualification.
Donor Communities—Individual Giving Groups, Leaders’ Circle, and Planned Giving
- Implement a renewed vision for UWGPs planned giving program (Cornerstone Society).
- Recruit, manage, and leverage Planned Giving Advisory Council volunteers by setting goals and supporting their efforts to grow the Cornerstone Society.
- Collaborate with UWGPs Individual Giving Groups (Women United, Brick & Beam Society) to develop a pipeline for growing Tocqueville Society membership.
- Collaborate with Marketing to create communication materials and events for the cultivation and stewardship of existing major and planned giving donors and prospects.
Other
- Cultivate and grow positive, productive relationships with board members, volunteers, community and business leaders, stakeholders, and fellow employees to influence and advance the strategic plan and mission of the organization.
- Generate and analyze data that tracks engagement to inform prospect identification and qualification strategies, initiating corrective action as needed.
- Perform other duties as opportunities are presented and/or assigned.
Work Environment
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This position regularly requires long hours and occasional weekend work.
Travel
Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected.
- Demonstrated relationship management experience with an applied emphasis on creativity and growth;
- Exceptional listening and self-awareness (EQ) skills;
- Demonstrated ability in effective meeting facilitation;
- Persuasive oral and written communications skills with an ability to relate to a diverse group of individuals or organizations;
- Strong ability to define and execute on action plans;
- Ability to take initiative and be creative in thinking and solutions;
- Solid computer skills (familiarity with customer relationship management systems, electronic giving and information exchange preferred); Significant experience and comfort in Excel is a requirement;
- High-energy, outcome-focused individual with a positive “can-do” outlook who can manage ambiguity and change;
- Experience leading teams to achieve revenue goals;
- Demonstrated ability to inspire others to make transformational philanthropic investments;
- Commitment to excellence and to the mission of United Way
- Occasional (2-3x/year) out-of-town travel
- Ability to work early/late, especially during peak seasons
- Access to vehicle for frequent of-of-office meetings