Director, Major Gifts

TL;DR

Director, Major Gifts (Philanthropy): Leading frontline fundraising efforts to secure significant philanthropic support from high-net-worth individuals and family foundations with an accent on moves management and strategic donor cultivation. Focus on building a new major gifts program, crafting compelling proposals, and leveraging AI-powered insights to expand the donor pipeline.

Location: Must be based in or able to commute to New York, NY (Hybrid)

Salary: $110,000–$130,000 per year

Company

A global nonprofit organization dedicated to early childhood education and social impact through the iconic Sesame Street brand.

What you will do

• Manage and grow a portfolio of 125-150 high-capacity individual donors and family foundations.
• Develop and execute individualized moves management strategies from identification to solicitation.
• Personally solicit and secure major and principal gifts at the $10,000+ level.
• Lead the preparation of high-quality proposals and grant reports for family foundations.
• Collaborate with executive leadership and board members to facilitate high-level donor engagement.
• Provide mentorship and coaching to other Major Gift Officers on the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred.
• 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in major gift fundraising.
• Demonstrated track record of closing five- to seven-figure gifts.
• High proficiency in CRM systems, preferably Salesforce.
• Ability to travel regularly for donor meetings and events.
• Deep commitment to the mission of global early childhood education.

Nice to have

• Experience in media, social impact, or early childhood development fundraising.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work model with 2-5 days in-office per week.
• Opportunity to work at the intersection of education, media, and research.
• Mission-driven environment focused on global social impact.
• Collaborative team culture with executive-level exposure.