Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Coker University
Job overview
The Major Gifts Officer at Coker University is responsible for securing private funding by managing a portfolio of donor prospects and generating significant revenue through major gifts and planned giving initiatives.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves identifying and cultivating major gift prospects, preparing proposals, traveling to meet donors, stewarding existing donors, maintaining relationships with university stakeholders, tracking donor interactions, and participating in special projects and professional development.
Experience and skills
Requires at least 4 years of experience in major gift fundraising or related fields, strong relationship-building and communication skills, ability to solicit and close gifts, organizational skills, comfort discussing financial matters, and a valid driver's license; campaign experience is preferred.
Work environment and culture
Coker University values high standards of service and excellence, emphasizing customer service, communication, and professionalism within a supportive campus and community environment.
Company information
Coker University is a liberal arts institution in Hartsville, SC, focused on practical application of liberal arts education and hands-on learning, located near major cultural and recreational centers.
Team overview
The Major Gifts Officer reports to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement and works as part of the Institutional Advancement team, collaborating with staff, faculty, and campus leadership.
Job location and travel
Position is based in Hartsville, SC, with extensive travel required locally and out of state to meet donors, involving up to 50% travel time.
Unique job features
The role requires independent travel, managing a high volume of donor contacts, and involves stewardship of major gifts at $25,000 and above, with a focus on planned giving initiatives.
Company overview
Coker University is a private liberal arts university located in Hartsville, South Carolina, known for its student-centered learning environment and emphasis on experiential learning. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, and the arts, generating revenue primarily through tuition and fees. Established in 1908, Coker has a rich history of fostering a close-knit community and providing personalized education. The institution is recognized for its round-table, discussion-based teaching approach, which encourages critical thinking and active participation among students.
How to land this job
Position your resume to showcase your experience in major gift fundraising and donor relations, emphasizing your ability to solicit and close high-value gifts and manage donor portfolios effectively.
Highlight skills in relationship building with alumni, donors, faculty, and leadership, as well as your proficiency in drafting and presenting major gift and planned giving proposals.
Apply through Coker University's official career portal and LinkedIn to maximize your application reach and ensure visibility to their hiring team.
Connect on LinkedIn with members of Coker University's Institutional Advancement team or alumni relations staff; start conversations by commenting on recent university campaigns or asking about strategies for donor engagement at Coker.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords such as 'major gift fundraising,' 'donor stewardship,' 'planned giving,' 'portfolio management,' and 'relationship cultivation' to pass initial screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify multiple application platforms, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and networking.
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