Major Gift Officer, University Development

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for University Development, the Major Gift Officer, identifies, cultivates, and solicits alumni, parents, and friends on behalf of Columbia University and its 17 schools and programs in the West Coast region of the United States.

Columbia University continually seeks funds for facilities, endowed scholarships, fellowships and professorships, as well as unrestricted and restricted current use purposes. The University recently launched a $1.4B Student Support Initiatives to increase its financial aid offer across the institutions. The Major Gift Officer plays a central role collaborating with University officials, School leadership, faculty, development senior leadership, campaign volunteers, and colleagues throughout the Alumni and Development community.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Major Gift Officers on the University Development team are responsible for managing a portfolio of 150 major gift prospects within assigned geographic regions by qualifying prospects and cultivating potential contributors; designing and developing solicitation strategies; identifying gift opportunities that match donors' interests; and personally soliciting gifts and continually stewarding major gift donors. The Major Gift Officer will achieve and document 150 prospect visits per year as well as achieve 15 asks of $250,000 or above per year.

Major Gift Officers on the University Development team carry portfolios with geographic regional assignments requiring significant travel. Working in a highly collaborative environment, members of the Major Gifts team have opportunities to engage with multiple Columbia schools and faculty, participate in project teams, and manage volunteers. Experience working in complex organizations and ability to navigate multiple priorities is recommended. Officers may be asked to perform related tasks, as needed. The Major Gift Officers are expected to be self-motivated, well-organized and collegial partners, and, above all, persuasive advocates for Columbia University's priorities.   

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree required. Minimum 5-7 years’ related experience, preferably in fundraising or related transferable experience, with demonstrated success in annual or capital giving or applicable ability. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tact, sensitivity, and mature judgment are required. Must be professional, organized, creative, efficient, and have the ability to work successfully both individually and as part of a team. This position requires evening and weekend work, and travel 30-50% time.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree required. Minimum 5-7 years’ related experience, preferably in fundraising or related transferable experience, with demonstrated success in annual or capital giving or applicable ability. Excellent writing and communication skills, tact, sensitivity, and mature judgment are required. Must be professional, organized, creative, efficient, and able to work successfully both individually and as part of a team. This position requires evening and weekend work and travel 30-50% time.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Subject to business needs, the Office of Alumni and Development supports remote and hybrid work arrangements for this position. Options will be discussed during the interview process.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.