Georgia 4-H Foundation Development Officer-Athens

About the Role

The Development Officer reports to the Executive Director of the Georgia 4-H Foundation. This position implements identified priorities and funding needs for the Georgia 4-H Foundation in coordination with the State 4-H program. The role involves managing annual fund campaigns, special events, and establishing a portfolio of donors. Work is performed independently, with frequent evenings and weekends required. A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable private vehicle for official travel are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management (60%):
  • Build strong relationships with donors, aligning their interests with Georgia 4-H’s needs and priorities.
  • Develop and execute long- and short-term prospect management plans and solicitation strategies.
  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward prospects and donors for major gifts ($25,000–$1,000,000).
  • Manage a portfolio of major giving prospects, conducting face-to-face meetings monthly.
  • Prepare proposals, presentations, and fundraising materials for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
  • Enter contact reports in the donor tracking database (GAIL) after each visit.
  • Complete follow-up tasks, including sending thank-you notes and requested information.
• Special Events (20%):
  • Collaborate on fundraising and stewardship events for the Georgia 4-H Foundation, including State Congress and regional alumni programs.
  • Coordinate donor receptions, regional alumni programs, and State 4-H Congress donor tours with Foundation Trustees and staff.
• Cross-Campus Collaboration (10%):
  • Work with University Development and other offices to identify partnership opportunities and joint asks for major/planned gift prospects.
• Reporting (10%):
  • Submit processes in 4-H Foundation (Raiser’s Edge) and University of Georgia (GAIL) databases for gift reports and acknowledgments.
  • Collaborate with the Foundation’s Executive Director to strategize major giving priorities, including endowment and multi-year commitments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of fundraising, marketing, or sales.
• Highly developed organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects under deadlines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including public speaking.
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with colleagues, donors, and the public.
• Commitment to professional development through conferences, workshops, or research.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable private vehicle for travel, including occasional overnight trips in and out of state.
• Ability to sit at a desk for extended periods and lift up to 20 lbs.
• Occasional weekend work required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in fundraising or donor portfolio management.

About the University of Georgia

Chartered in 1785, the University of Georgia (UGA) is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state’s flagship university. UGA is ranked among the top 20 public universities by U.S. News & World Report, with over 41,000 students and 3,100 faculty. The main campus is located in Athens, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. The university comprises 19 schools and colleges, including a newly established School of Medicine.