At LACASA, the spirit of diversity and inclusion is encouraged and infused into everything we engage in; activities, behaviors and communications inside and outside the walls of LACASA. From the educational programs we develop and the shelter we operate to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. LACASA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, pregnancy status, ethnicity, national origin, age, citizenship status, marital status, physical or mental disability, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation and/or Veteran status.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Senior Major Gifts Officer (MGO) is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donors to secure significant financial support to LACASA for operations, capital campaign/improvements, endowments and planned gifts. This role focuses on developing and managing relationships with individuals, foundations, and corporate donors capable of making significant contributions. The MGO will play a key role in helping the organization achieve its fundraising goals by working closely with senior leadership, board members and other stakeholders. The successful candidate will have opportunity to grow into Chief Development Officer role.
QUALIFICATIONS: A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or a related field is required; a Master’s degree is a plus. A minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, with a proven track record of securing major gifts ($10,000+). Demonstrated success in building and maintaining long-term donor relationships. Experience in a nonprofit environment is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate the organization’s mission and impact effectively. This individual should be gifted in negotiation, presentation, and public speaking skills and demonstrate a high level of emotional intelligence, with the ability to connect with and inspire donors. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects, donors and organizational reports simultaneously. Proficiency in CRM systems and fundraising software (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge).
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Donor Identification and Cultivation
- Identifies and researches potential major donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations.
- Develops and implements personalized stewardship strategies to build strong, long-term relationships with prospective donors.
- Maintains a robust pipeline of major gift prospects, ensuring continuous donor engagement.
- Assists in recruitment of volunteer fundraisers for campaigns and major fundraising events.
Solicitation
- Develops and executes solicitation strategies for major gifts, including preparing tailored proposals, presentations, and ask strategies.
- Personally solicits major gifts through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and written communications.
- Solicits top event sponsors for LACASA events.
- Collaborates with Development Department staff, President & Chief Executive Officer, LACASA’s Board of Directors and other key stakeholders to execute high-impact solicitations.
Donor Stewardship
- Ensures timely and appropriate stewardship of major donors, including regular communication, recognition, and personalized reports on the impact of their gifts.
- Plans and executes donor recognition events and activities to enhance relationships and encourage continued support.
- Monitors and manages donor satisfaction, addressing any concerns or issues promptly.
Collaboration and Teamwork
- Works closely with the President & Chief Executive Officer, LACASA’s Board of Directors and other development team members to align major gifts strategies with overall fundraising goals.
- Collaborates with program staff to understand funding needs and effectively communicate program impact to donors.
- Collaborates and coordinates work plans/activities with communications staff.
- Attends and participates in development meetings, strategy sessions, and organizational events as needed.
Data Management and Reporting
- Maintains accurate and up-to-date records of donor interactions, gifts and stewardship activities in the organization’s CRM system.
- Tracks progress against fundraising goals and provides regular reports to senior leadership.
- Analyzes donor data to identify trends, opportunities and areas for improvement.
- Conducts monthly prospect review meetings with key leaders and volunteers.
Strategic Planning
- Contributes to the development and implementation of the organization’s overall fundraising strategy, with a focus on major gifts.
- Assists in setting short-term, annual and long-term fundraising goals and develops plans to achieve them.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements: This position typically works in an office environment (partial remote eligible) but may require travel for donor meetings, events, and other activities. Regularly required to communicate and exchange information in-person and or via email, virtual, text and telephone. Frequent evening and weekend work is required.
If you meet or exceed the qualifications for this position, please send your resume and cover letter to hr@lacasacenter.org.
LACASA does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. LACASA is an equal opportunity employer. LACASA is a 501(c)3 organization.
