Sr Reg. Director Major Gifts | Harvard University Radcliffe Institute - Military Veterans

Job Summary The Harvard Radcliffe Institute is seeking a Senior Regional Director of Major Gifts to join our team. This position reports directly to the Senior Director of Major Gifts and is charged with the stewardship of a vibrant portfolio of 125-150 high-potential prospects in the New York City area. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in devising and implementing targeted strategies to secure significant six and seven-figure donations, nurturing relationships with potential and existing donors at various engagement levels. The Senior Regional Director of Major Gifts will exhibit a strong commitment to efficient time management and a results-driven approach. This role demands exceptional organizational skills, communications skills, a prioritized workflow, a collaborative spirit and professionalism. The candidate should embody entrepreneurial acumen and be prepared for regular travel to engage with donors face-to-face, supplemented by virtual and telephonic interactions. Join us in our endeavor to foster meaningful partnerships and contribute to the advancement of the Harvard Radcliffe Institute's mission through strategic fundraising initiatives. Position Description Manage a focused portfolio of 125-150 prospects, primarily in the New York City region, focusing on individuals who can make transformative contributions at the 6- and-7-figure levels. Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals, consistent with the expectations for a senior-level fundraiser. These goals include, but are not limited to prospect visits, gift solicitations, successful gift closures, and overall dollars raised. Proactively identify and engage new donor prospects by leveraging referrals, volunteer connections, and collaborative efforts with the prospect research team, ensuring their seamless integration into the major gift pipeline. Complete and maintain current accurate records of all donor interactions and progress within Harvard's ADVANCE fundraising database. Strategically evaluate and rank prospects, coordinate with key volunteers for donor assignments, prepare essential briefing materials for interactions, and ensure the follow-through of volunteer-led initiatives. Plan and implement key donor cultivation events in region in partnership with HRI events team, maintaining a robust and effective regional event strategy. Assume additional programmatic responsibilities as needed, such as leading discrete fundraising initiatives or special projects that contribute to the department's success and enhance the long-term donor engagement strategy. Act as a mentor and knowledge resource for fellow fundraisers, sharing insights and expertise in HRI fundraising practices. Foster strong collaborative relationships with colleagues across External Relations and the broader Harvard community, working in tandem with leaders from HRI, FAS Development, the University Development Office, and other Harvard Schools to align strategies for donors with interests in multiple Harvard areas, optimizing their philanthropic impact on HRI. Manage and optimize the involvement of HRI's dean and senior leaders in fundraising activities for assigned prospects. Prepare detailed strategic briefings for meetings and ensure thorough follow-up after donor interactions and events. Represent HRI at donor-hosted regional events and manage these occasions as necessary. Also, take part in local academic lectures and associated social functions to foster donor relationships. Act as a dedicated advocate for HRI, effectively communicating its goals and achievements to stakeholders. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's Degree required. At least seven years of progressively responsible development experience. Included in this experience is: Ability to identify and evaluate donor prospects and to establish and maintain relationships with them. Demonstrated success in leadership gift fundraising, including issue-based fundraising and higher education reunion campaigns Ability to take relationships with donors to a higher level and to move challenging and/or complex cases forward. Experience turning institutional priorities into compelling gift opportunities for donors Collaborative problem solving and an entrepreneurial approach to designing creative donor engagement strategies Sophisticated and comprehensive understanding of fundraising best-practices and techniques. Additional Qualifications and Skills Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals at all levels both verbally and in writing. Must be able to operate independently and display critical thinking and sound judgement. Experience working with volunteers. Ability to maximize giving potential and giving inclination using all available resources. Experience staffing high-level academic or other leaders in prospect meetings/trips is preferred. Physical Requirements Employee must have the ability to sit at a desk for a minimum of seven hours a day and complete tasks requiring repetitive use of hands. Extensive overnight travel will be required throughout the year to accomplish the goals associated with this position. Working Conditions This job is performed primarily in a temperature-controlled office environment Support outside of regularly scheduled hours, including weekends, will occasionally be required. Extensive travel will be required throughout the year for meetings with potential donors, attending events and building relationships. Additional Information Please note that cover letters are required for every application for a position at the Harvard Radcliffe Institute: Interviews: We will be conducting interviews virtually and might invite finalist candidates for on-campus interviews. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility with our interview process. Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. However, we encourage all interested candidates to apply before August 25, 2024. Benefits We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (