DescriptionIn preparation for an upcoming comprehensive campaign, Luther College is seeking multiple development officers to add to its Development and Engagement staff. The development officer serves as an ambassador of the College with responsibility to build and develop long-term, donor-centric relationships built on a firm understanding of the donor's interest, passions, and values. The primary objective of the officer is to advance the mission of the College by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding prospective donors with major and planned gift potential in support of Luther's fundraising initiatives and institutional priorities.ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and maintain an annual plan to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of approximately 100-120 donor prospects with major and deferred gift potential ($25,000+). Secure gifts in quality and quantity to support capital, endowment, and annual giving priorities.
- Develop strategies for donor cultivation, and move prospects toward gift conversations/solicitation. Review and adjust activity accordingly to meet performance goals.
- Work in partnership with the Director of Planned Giving and Data Operations to cultivate and expand current giving by planned gift donors and integrate planned gift objectives into the proposal and solicitation process.
- Work in partnership with the Director of Annual Giving and Director of Engagement to ensure collaboration between the goals of each area and maximize engagement and pipeline giving opportunities to further major gift cultivation.
- Plan itineraries, solicitation plans, and objectives with the Director of Major Gifts. Travel regionally and nationally, within assigned territory/region, completing a minimum of 100 donor visits per fiscal year. Plan and execute travel in a cost-effective manner, maximizing visits and outreach efforts.
- Complete electronic call reports on a weekly basis, and maintain and update database systems, Luther files, and data generated from new contacts.
- Participate in department and College events (i.e. Homecoming, Christmas at Luther, Reunion Workshops, etc.); attend training and professional development programs as directed by the office.
- Maintain cooperative relationships between the development office and other campus departments and programs. Contribute to a collaborative and effective work environment.
- Promote a professional and positive image of the College in the community and among its constituents and serve as an advocate for the College and its mission.
- Promote, uphold, and exemplify the College's commitment to diversity, equity,inclusion and belonging
- Adhere to the AFP Code of Ethical Standards and the Donor Bill of Rights.
- Assist the director of major gifts in other duties as they may arise.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE and SKILLS:
- Education: Bachelor's degree minimum; Degree from a liberal arts college desired.
- Required Experience: Minimum 3+ years years experience in development, major gifts, or a related area. Proven track record in direct donor cultivation, solicitation, and gift closure. Experience in other advancement related programs is a plus; experience in an academic setting is preferred.
- Preferred Experience: 7+ years years experience in development, major gifts, or a related area to qualify for Senior Development Officer rank. Proven track record in direct donor cultivation, solicitation, and gift closure. Experience in other advancement related programs is a plus; experience in an academic setting is preferred.
- Knowledge of prospect research/research analytics, marketing, and public relations preferred.
- Ability to understand the needs and interests of donors in order to develop relationships between them and the College.
- Ability to develop rapport quickly and communicate effectively with a wide variety of personalities.
- Comfortability, humility, and confidence in challenging conversations.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality with a variety of prospects, donors, and leadership volunteers.
- Ability to clearly represent the mission and vision of Luther College as a residential, Lutheran, liberal arts college.
- Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends of the college.
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Self-starter demonstrating initiative, creativity, and ability to get results.
- Exudes enthusiasm, confidence, flexibility, and integrity.
- Ability to maintain a high level of poise and professionalism in all circumstances.
- Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
- Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
- Flexibility to travel up to 50% of the work schedule, which includes local and national travel. Evening and weekend hours are required for special events and travel.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- This position requires extensive travel, sometimes for many days in a row, throughout the year. When in office: sedentary work. Involves sitting, standing, and walking in a well-lighted and well-ventilated office.
- This position is open to a remote work arrangement, pending candidate experience and geographical alignment with the assigned prospect portfolio. At least 4-6 visits to campus each year would be expected, in addition to extensive travel within the assigned territory.
COMPENSATION:Senior Development Officer: $60,700 - $81,000Development Officer: $53,200 - $71,000