Job Description
JOB SUMMARY:
The Director of Philanthropy is responsible for engaging ultra-high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, donor advised funds (DAFs) and leading philanthropic advisors and institutions to secure critical funding for CARE’s mission through both unrestricted and program-specific gifts. Reporting directly to a Senior Director of Philanthropy, this role will build and manage a portfolio of current and prospective donors with the capacity to give six and seven figure gifts, as well as engage DAFs, financial institutions, and philanthropy networks to build donor awareness and connections to CARE's work.
The Director will develop and execute strategies to build meaningful, long-term relationships with donors. They will also engage DAF leaders and advisors who work with ultra-high-net-worth philanthropists, bringing them closer to CARE’s work through personalized stewardship and strategic, creative outreach. This role requires deep and thoughtful engagement with donors and their advisors, serving as a partner to help them achieve impact that aligns with their values and goals.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Fundraising
- Manage a portfolio of 30-50 donors, prospects, DAF contacts and private wealth/philanthropic advisors, developing and implementing tailored engagement and solicitation strategies.
- Secure gifts of $100,000 and above, meeting or exceeding annual goals
- Work with the Principal Gifts team and CARE leadership to educate donors on their impact and provide opportunities to invest in organizational priorities.
- Share the meaningful impact donors make in creative ways and tailored to communication styles, ensuring they feel deeply connected to CARE’s mission, projects, and people.
- Creatively and thoughtfully build meaningful connections and community, serving as a liaison between funders, Board Members, CARE program leaders, and partners.
Prospect and Pipeline Development
- Identify and cultivate new principal gift prospects through CARE events, small gatherings, and the annual Impact Awards.
- Build and activate a pipeline of major donors identified through research, events, influencers, emergencies, DAFs, and Board Member networks.
- Partner with the Prospect Research team to maximize efforts to engage the next generation of philanthropists by identifying emerging donors and creating tailored engagement strategies.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records and pipelines in CARE’s CRM system, Salesforce.
DAF and Wealth Advisor Engagement
- Implement the overarching strategy in coordination with Senior Director to grow revenue and influence with DAFs, CFs, and private wealth advisors
- Maintain a portfolio of national DAFs and the large Community Foundations and wealth managers to promote awareness of CARE as a top-tier humanitarian organization. Develop high-level relationships within institutions (e.g., CEOs, Senior Leads for Nonprofit) and facilitate introductions for other team members.
- Champion internal processes and innovation to facilitate increased giving from DAFs and private wealth clients, and troubleshoot issues such as donation capabilities, acknowledgments, and reporting
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with a large nonprofit and/or international NGO.
- Proficiency in Salesforce or similar donor CRM systems.
- Proven track record of securing 6-7 figure gifts, and experience working with or for Donor Advised Funds, philanthropic/wealth advisors, and other key leaders in the philanthropic sector
- Passion for CARE’s mission and values.
- Exceptional communication and writing skills, with sound judgment and discretion.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize effectively, and maintain attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with donors, Board Members, guest speakers, and staff at all levels
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in a fundraising role, preferably in a Principal or Major Gifts role engaging with ultra high-net-worth individual donors.
