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Special Instructions to Applicants

Please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references when applying for this position.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Senior Major Gift Officer serves as a senior-level fundraiser responsible for developing charitable support for the University through the USM Foundation. This position identifies prospects, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors with a focus on those capable of making principal-level gifts of $100,000 or more in support of University objectives while meeting defined visit and solicitation goals and working closely with the Chief Development Officer, deans, faculty, staff, volunteers and other key stakeholders to achieve those goals. This position independently prioritizes goals set in consultation with supervisors and assists Foundation management in the development and execution of the fundraising plan for the organization.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

+ Identifies, cultivates, solicits and stewards alumni and other donors to include development and implementation of prospect strategy, preparation of written materials, direct solicitation, and, if appropriate, solicitation in tandem with others. Develops and executes effective cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies. Engages deans, University faculty and staff, and others in advancement efforts, as required. Stewards relationships with existing donors.

+ Maintains records of visits, solicitations, and cultivation statuses in accordance with system requirements and Foundation protocols. Records detailed interaction of all visits and prospect management including proposals to prospects and gifts donated to the Foundation.

+ Independently and successfully manages a portfolio of prospective donors with a focus on principal gift prospects. Works with Research team to identify new prospects for major and planned gifts to build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospects. Ensures all assigned prospects are managed effectively and adjusts strategy as needed. Works with Communications team to develop individualized proposals for high-level gifts and to properly publicize gifts in accordance with donor preferences. Works with Donor Engagement team to create individualized stewardship plans for high-level gifts as appropriate.

+ Meets defined visit, solicitation and gift closure goals. Exercises and promotes good judgment, discretion in interactions and application of ethics related to development activities.

+ Proactively stays informed about current events and trends in philanthropy and fundraising. Mentors Major Gift and Development Officers in their continued development and professional growth. Assists the Chief Development Officer in the training and guidance of new Development Officers.

+ Manages an expense budget to optimize utilization of resources to achieve stated goals. Plans and implements personal travel, as necessary. Completes expense submittals on a timely basis.

+ Performs other duties as assigned.