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Director Of Development Major Gifts Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Major Gifts

New York, NY · Hybrid

$115K - $130K/yr

A mission-driven nonprofit organization is seeking a Director of Major Gifts to lead its individual ... and development operations while supporting their professional growth and fundraising success ...

New

... Director of Major Gifts to engage alumni and friends as partners in supporting the College of Health and Human Development (HHD) , a collaborative community of faculty, staff, students and alumni ...

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Director Of Development Major Gifts information

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$24.5K

$102.3K

$148.5K

How much do director of development major gifts jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of development major gifts in the United States is $102,275.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Director Of Development Major Gifts vs Development Officer?

AspectDirector Of Development Major GiftsDevelopment Officer
Primary FocusSecuring major gifts and high-value donorsManaging donor relations and fundraising campaigns
Required CredentialsTypically bachelor’s degree, fundraising experience, major gift expertiseSimilar credentials, often with less emphasis on major gift experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, high-level donor meetingsCommunity outreach, event coordination
Industry UsageNonprofits, educational institutions, healthcareSimilar industries, often reporting to Directors or Managers

The main difference is that the Director Of Development Major Gifts focuses on securing large donations from major donors and leading strategic fundraising efforts, while the Development Officer handles broader donor relations and campaign activities. Both roles require fundraising experience, but the Director position typically involves higher-level planning and relationship management.

What does a director of development major gifts do?

A Director of Development Major Gifts is responsible for leading an organization’s efforts to secure large financial donations from individuals, corporations, or foundations. They develop and implement strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, often focusing on gifts that significantly impact the organization’s mission. This role typically involves building relationships with prospective donors, managing a portfolio of major gift prospects, and collaborating with executives and board members to achieve fundraising goals. Their leadership is crucial in ensuring long-term financial sustainability for nonprofits, educational institutions, or other organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of development major gifts, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Of Development Major Gifts, you need expertise in fundraising strategy, donor cultivation, and relationship management, often supported by a bachelor's degree in business, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management systems like Raiser's Edge and knowledge of prospect research tools are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and persuasive communication differentiate top performers in this role. These capabilities are crucial for building lasting donor relationships and securing significant contributions to support organizational goals.

How does a director of development major gifts typically collaborate with board members and other senior leaders to achieve fundraising goals?

A Director of Development, Major Gifts works closely with board members and senior leaders to strategize and execute major fundraising initiatives. This collaboration often involves regular meetings to align on donor engagement strategies, sharing progress updates, and leveraging the networks and influence of board members to access new prospects. Additionally, the Director may coach board members on donor stewardship best practices and coordinate their participation in cultivation or solicitation meetings. These partnerships are crucial for building a strong culture of philanthropy and achieving ambitious fundraising targets.
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What cities are hiring for Director Of Development Major Gifts jobs? Cities with the most Director Of Development Major Gifts job openings:
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Infographic showing various Director Of Development Major Gifts job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,275 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Director of Major Gifts

Ohio Environmental Council

Columbus, OH • On-site

$73K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Ohio Environmental Council(OEC)seeks a Director of MajorGiftswho will join our Advancement team. This role will play a transformative partin growing the financial strength of theOEC,the OEC'saffiliated 501 (c) (4) organization, the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund(AF), and other affiliated entities.


The role is highly action-oriented, focused on strategically cultivating and stewarding a portfolio of mid-level and major donors through consistent, thoughtful, and high-impact engagement.The Director of Major Gifts will execute a high volume of one-on-one donor meetings, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate prospects into donors. You'llalso design and execute strategic events that attract, engage, and convert newdonorprospects, creating opportunities to expand our donor base and deepen support.


The Director of Major Gifts will work closely with a talented Advancement team, including the VP of Advancement, Grants Director, and Membership Engagement Manager. The Director of Major Gifts will report to the Managing Director of Individual Giving.


JobResponsibilities

As the Director of Major Gifts, your responsibilitieswill include:

  • Developing and executing strategies to engage and grow a portfolio of mid-level and major donors, including corporate prospects.
  • Build strong relationships through consistent outreach, with a focus on regular one-on-one meetings and meaningful, personalized stewardship.
  • Crafting clear, compelling communications and engagement strategies that demonstrate the impact of each donor's support.
  • Maintaining an active cadence of donor visits and direct solicitations, moving prospects through the cultivation pipeline to close gifts.
  • Designing and hosting events-including small gatherings and political fundraisers-to attract new prospects,demonstrateimpact,and deepen donor engagement.
  • Partnering across teams and support board members and volunteer fundraisers to expand networks and elevate fundraising results across OEC and its affiliates.
  • Identifying and pursuing new donor prospects through events, research, data insights, and proactive outreach.


Qualifications

Key qualifications

  • You have at eight years of non-profit and/or political fundraising experience.
  • You have successful experience conducting one-on-one donor solicitations and managing donor relationships.
  • You have demonstrable event planning and project management experience.
  • You have effectivewritten and oralcommunication skillsand interpersonal skills.
  • You have demonstrableproficiencywith fundraising databases and technology.
  • You have effective time management skills, including prioritizing and managing multiple projects independently.
  • Youhaveexperiencefinding effective solutions toproblems.
  • You have the ability to work collaboratively orindependently and fillgapswhenneeded.
  • You approach your work with a flexible, positive attitude, and the spirit of "yes".
  • You have the ability to adapt quickly to change.
  • You share our commitment to ensuring an inclusive organization that is representative of all Ohioans.

Preferred qualifications

  • You have experience working with nonprofit and government organizations or advocacy groups.
  • You have experience with portfolio and moves management for middle and major donors.
  • You have a strong track record of securing major gifts and/or political contributions.
  • You have strong analytical skills with sophisticated understanding of how to use data for donor qualification and strategy.
  • You have working knowledge of501(c4)and politicalfundraising regulations
  • You havedemonstratedacommitment to continued professional growth and development.
  • You have the ability to plan, track, and manage a budget successfully.
  • You can travel within the state, and available for occasional overnight or out-of-state travel for meetings and conferences.

Compensation and benefits

The salary range for this position is $73,000 - $80,000 and is within the bargaining unit represented by OEC Workers United. Excellent benefits include employer-paid health, vision, dental, and life insurance; flexible and dependent care spending account; generous paid time off; paid parental leave; and employer-matched retirement fund.


Additional Details

The OEC's headquarters are located in Columbus, Ohio. While Columbus is the preferred location of the Director of Major Gifts, consideration may be given to candidates based elsewhere in the state. Some travel will also be required, including occasional overnight or out-of-state travel for conferences and meetings with partners, donors, etc.


About the OEC

The Ohio Environmental Council and its affiliated organization, the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund, envisions a clean, healthy Ohio where our democracy empowers all communities to thrive in harmony with the environment. The mission of the OEC is to protect the environment and health of all Ohio communities through legal and policy advocacy, decision-maker accountability, and civic engagement. Fornearly 10years, the OEC Action Fund has built the political power of Ohio's environmental movement. Visit theOEC Action Fund's websiteto learn more about its work.


The OECseeksto hire staff and contractors that reflect the communities and perspectives thatcompriseOhio. The OEC is an equalopportunityemployer, and candidates of all backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply.


How to Apply

Submit your cover letter, resume, development writing sample, and references via the Director of Major Gifts job posting on BambooHR. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.