"Major Gift Officer, College of Engineering"

Position Summary

Cornell Engineering, the largest engineering program among the Ivies, is a leader in innovation and discovery, tackling global challenges through cutting-edge research and education. To advance these bold priorities, the Major Gift Officer plays a pivotal role in securing philanthropic support by managing a portfolio of high-capacity prospects. This position focuses on building and sustaining long-term donor relationships and collaborating with faculty and university partners to inspire transformative giving that fuels the college's mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an estimated pool size of 100-120 prospect households, comprised of a mixture of unqualified, new and long-term donors, with the goal of securing major gifts.
• Regularly solicit and close gifts of various sizes with the goal of increasing gifts of $250,000 - $1,000,000 while simultaneously raising donor sights, encourage annual giving, multi-year commitments, and estate gifts.
• Serve as a liaison to departments and schools within the College of Engineering, facilitating donor engagement and communicating giving opportunities aligned with college priorities.
• Serve as a resource to fellow gift officers, contributing to prospect strategy development and stewardship initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and gift documentation in accordance with university fundraising policies.

About Alumni Affairs and Development

Cornell's Alumni Affairs and Development division, widely regarded as one of the top-performing advancement organizations in higher education, connects alumni, parents and friends with opportunities to advance the university's mission through philanthropy and engagement. As part of our team, you'll help cultivate meaningful relationships while working alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to excellence and educational advancement.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 5 to 7 years relevant experience or equivalent combination in development, alumni affairs, public affairs, marketing, and/or business development
• Experience working with volunteers; the ability to manage complex relationships, a proven collaborator with teamwork skills.
• Excellent communication skills; the ability to speak credibly about higher education and the aspirations of Cornell; clarity, crispness and effectiveness in written and oral presentations.
• Willingness to travel extensively, up to 40% of staff time, and to work nights and weekends as needed.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
• Must have a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefer experience in higher education or similarly complex environment.
• Experience working with faculty.

Work Location

This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement. Employees typically perform this role remotely 2 days per week and on campus 3 days per week. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time.

Rewards and Benefits

• Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

University Job Title:

Major Gifts Ofcr III

Job Family:

Alumni Affairs Development

Level:

G

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Pay Range:

$104,037.00 - $127,157.00

Remote Option Availability:

Hybrid

Company:

Endowed