Major Gifts Officer

portfolio of major-gift level prospects and engage alumni, parents, and friends to secure philanthropic support through an integrated approach to major, principal and planned giving. Responsibilities include identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individuals with the capacity and inclination to make significant contributions, while developing and executing donor-specific strategies in collaboration with internal partners.

The Major Gifts Officer will build and strengthen meaningful relationships through regular outreach, travel, and in-person engagement, while tracking and reporting on fundraising activities and outcomes. The role requires close collaboration with deans, faculty, and administrators to understand institutional priorities, provide timely updates on donor engagement efforts, and serve as a liaison to an assigned academic department, including maintaining a strong relationship with the Department Chair. Additionally, this position will serve as a regional expert in coordination with Alumni Relations and Advancement Services, supporting volunteer engagement, alumni outreach initiatives, and potential annual fund efforts within an assigned geographic area in the central United States.

Success in this role requires a comprehensive understanding of the Institute’s goals, priorities, and campus initiatives, along with a commitment to contributing to a collaborative and high-performing Institutional Advancement team. The Major Gifts Officer will support advancement efforts across functions as needed and perform other duties as assigned to meet evolving organizational needs. This is a remote position focused on the central U.S. territory; candidates should ideally reside in Texas or be willing to relocate to Texas or the surrounding region. Other possible areas include but aren’t limited to Oklahoma City, OK or Kansas City, MO. Proximity within approximately one hour of a major airport is important to support travel requirements. The Director and broader team operate in a remote environment, requiring strong self-direction and communication skills.

Qualified candidates will possess a bachelor’s degree in business, communications, public relations, or a related field, along with a minimum of five years of progressive fundraising experience and a demonstrated record of successfully securing major gifts ($50K+). Candidates should exhibit strong analytical thinking and project and process management skills, as well as proficiency with database systems, spreadsheet applications, word processing, and internet-based tools. Knowledge of market research techniques and the ability to develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive fundraising programs is required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information, write reports and grant proposals, and build lasting relationships with alumni, donors, and key stakeholders. Strong listening skills and the ability to engage diverse audiences are essential.

Preferred qualifications include prior experience in higher education and the ability to read and interpret complex materials such as technical journals, legal documents, and regulatory guidelines.