Director of Major & Planned Giving

Purpose

Working in conjunction with a dynamic major and planned gifts team, led by the Director of Development worldwide, the Director of Major and Planned Giving Northwest US, will further IFAW’s mission by planning and executing a regional major and planned giving program in conjunction with increased marketing efforts in the Pacific Northwest.Accountabilities/Responsibilities Establish a Major and Planned Giving program to give IFAW a larger presence and higher profile in San Francisco and the Bay area. Create a program to identify, cultivate and solicit major gift prospects, including setting dollar and activity goals. Identify, recruit and train regional volunteer leadership to assist with development and marketing activities. Plan and execute cultivation and donor functions and other special events in the San Francisco area. With the Director of Major and Planned Giving US, develop, manage and track a portfolio of 125 prospects. Develop strategies to identify, cultivate and solicit major and planned gift prospects for gifts of $25,000 and higher. Create a regional operating plan and set and achieve regional goals. Identify planned giving opportunities; cultivate planned giving prospects and develop proposals that incorporate gift planning tools that meet the needs of both the donor and IFAW. Provide staff support for regional leadership and volunteers, including supporting a Regional Council structure. Prepare contact reports and manage follow up and ongoing communication with current and potential donors, including Team Approach Management tracking activities. Commit to a plan for continuous learning about IFAW’s work in order to convey news to donors and prospects. Effectively communicate IFAW’s case for support for various initiatives and programs. Accompany and brief Senior Staff on prospect visits. Keep abreast of tax incentives, finance and current trends in philanthropy. Extensive travel required for this position.

 Requirements Bachelor’s degree required. Experience in conducting successful major gift solicitations and strong NGO non-profit experience preferred, along with demonstrated ability to identify and lead prospects to successful conclusions. Knowledge of fundraising techniques and experience with moves management strategies required. Experience in planned giving and working with high level volunteers essential. Experience in corporate/foundation fund raising, including proposal writing, preferred. Ability to participate in the ongoing development of the major and planned gifts program and lead strategy development and implementation in the Pacific Northwest region. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Additional experience in any of the following area preferred: publications, marketing, special events. Ability to manage complex issues creatively and effectively; has good judgment and ability to make independent decisions. Attention to detail and ability to manage a large number of fund raising activities simultaneously imperative. A high level of self sufficiency is required, including proficiency with computers and office software (Microsoft). Interest in environmental and animal welfare is desirable.