Major Gifts Officer

The Major Gifts Officer plays a pivotal role in advancing The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens' mission of desert conservation through preservation, education, and appreciation. Reporting to the Senior Major Gifts Officer and working closely with the Chief Development Officer, President/CEO, Development team, and key Board and volunteer leaders, this position focuses on securing major philanthropic investments for The Living Desert's Pride of the Desert Capital Campaign.

What You Will Do

Build and strengthen long-term relationships with donors to align their philanthropic goals with The Living Desert's mission. Conduct at least 120 meaningful donor interactions annually, including cultivation visits and solicitations. Research, identify, cultivate, and solicit prospects capable of making significant gifts ($50,000 to $1,000,000+).

Why It Might Be a Fit

This role offers the chance to make a visible and lasting difference as part of an ambitious, collaborative team. The Major Gifts Officer will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward high-capacity donors, inspiring them to invest in The Living Desert's vision for Lion Ridge, the Connie & Bob Lurie Special Events Center, and other landmark projects.

Requirements

• Experience and expertise in the principles and practices of effective fund development strategies, specifically in the area of major donor giving.
• Strong verbal and written skills to communicate clearly and persuasively.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the talent and the personality to work collaboratively, accept responsibility, and motivate colleagues, volunteers, and donors.
• Ability to work with others cooperatively and enthusiastically in a dynamic team setting.
• Willingness to form professional networking relationships with others.
• Perform duties with a high degree of independence, integrity, and ethical standards.
• Ability to work in a small department where hands-on participation is needed.
• Exceptional organizational skills.
• Ability to read reports, gather and analyze data, and compile information for written reports.
• Knowledge and experience using personal computers, hardware, and software programs including Word, Outlook, Excel, and CRM fundraising software, preferably DonorPerfect (prospecting, research, wealth screening).
• Familiarity with maintaining and working within established budgets.

Benefits

• Annual incentive compensation based on fundraising performance
• Paid holidays
• Other benefits not explicitly mentioned in the posting