Major Gifts & Development Manager

Roberta's House seeks a mission-driven and results-oriented Major Gifts and Development Manager to serve as a senior member of our External Affairs team. This elevated role offers a unique opportunity for a strategic fundraiser who excels in both relationship-building and operational execution. The Major Gifts and Development Manager will lead the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals capable of contributing $10,000 or more annually. With a focus on building a robust major gifts pipeline, this role will implement and manage donor engagement strategies that inspire giving and deepen relationships. Special attention will be given to enhancing donor recognition, retention, and long-term investment in our mission. In addition to major donor cultivation, the Manager will support the full spectrum of development operations-including low-dollar annual giving, campaign support, and fundraising systems oversight. The role also includes coordinating the organization's grants and contracts portfolio: conducting prospect research, tracking submissions, and supporting proposal development. Working closely with the Director of External Affairs and the Board of Directors, the Major Gifts and Development Manager will play a key role in advancing Roberta's House's development strategy and securing a diverse, sustainable funding base to support our expanding mission. Key Responsibilities: Deputy Role & Strategic Development Support Assumes key responsibilities of the Director of External Affairs in their absence and contributes to team leadership Collaborate on strategy execution and departmental planning across donor relations, fundraising systems, and grant acquisition Support cross-functional initiatives related to fundraising, marketing, and communications Donor Cultivation & Stewardship Engage directly in major and principal gift cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for prospective donors with the potential to make gifts of more than $10,000. The Major Gifts and Development Manager will be expected to conduct a minimum of 24 cultivation and solicitation contacts or visits a year, including the preparation of written proposals, soliciting at least 25 major gifts per year, and individually closing gifts totaling at least $500,000 annually. Design and launch Roberta's House Legacy Circle, a campaign to identify, cultivate, and solicit planned gifts Track all contributions in DonorPerfect , ensuring real-time accuracy and integrity of donor data Ensure every donor receives a personalized acknowledgment of their gift and an annual tax receipt letter Use moves management tools to deepen donor relationships and identify opportunities for increased support Generate regular donor activity reports to inform outreach and engagement strategies Grants & Contract Coordination Identify and research new corporate grant opportunities aligned with Roberta's House programs and priorities Review RFPs, RFAs, and announcements; collect required templates and documentation Maintain a grant calendar with deadlines for submission, reporting, and internal preparation Track the status of all proposals, reporting requirements, and follow-up steps Ensure the timely completion and submission of all grant materials Prepare agendas and follow-up notes for the Grants Team meetings Operational & Administrative Support Provide high-level administrative and strategic support to the Director of External Affairs Coordinate with the Finance Department to reconcile donor records and support the annual audit Maintain well-organized digital and physical files for donor and grant documentation Provide reports and updates to the Executive team. Qualifications: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a focus on individual giving. Proven track record of soliciting and closing gifts of $10,000 or more. Familiarity with planned giving strategies and vehicles; experience launching a Legacy Campaign. Education and Certifications: BA or BS degree in non-profit administration, marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field with two years of relevant experience, or a master's degree in a related field with one year of relevant experience. Alternatively, 7 years of relevant, progressive experience may substitute for education requirements. Certification as a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) issued by the National Events Industry Council or Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) is preferred. Certification in nonprofit management is desired Experience with Salesforce and DonorPerfect is highly desirable. General Requirements Possess a valid driver's license and use access to a private vehicle for this work. Ability to pass a background investigation. Ability to regularly work in an office environment or remotely perform work as scheduled Ability in prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer and prolonged standing Ability to work in temperatures in the extreme during agency-sponsored events Lift 10-20 pounds Travel required (15% or less) outside of the commuting area Submit a resume and cover letter to ... with the subject line: Major Gifts and Development Manager. Roberta's House is an equal opportunity employer regardless of race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, orientation, or other classification protected under the law.