Major Gifts Officer

About the role

SPCA Cincinnati is creating a Major Gifts Officer position to help build the future of philanthropy for one of the country's oldest animal welfare organizations. This is a frontline, relationship-driven fundraising role responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding high-capacity individual donors while growing a sustainable culture of philanthropy.

Responsibilities

• Build, qualify, and actively manage a portfolio of approximately 100-125 major gift prospects and donors.
• Develop and implement individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies.
• Maintain accurate donor records, strategy notes, and moves management activity within Raiser’s Edge.
• Utilize research, analytics, wealth screening, direct response engagement, and community connections to identify new prospects.
• Conduct meaningful donor visits and engagement activities designed to advance relationships and philanthropic investment.
• Develop compelling proposals aligned with organizational priorities.
• Secure five-figure gifts independently and participate in leadership and six-figure solicitations.
• Partner with the Chief Development Officer, CEO, and Board members on strategic donor engagement and solicitation efforts.
• Design and implement individualized stewardship plans that reinforce impact and encourage increased giving.
• Identify planned giving, blended giving, and multi-year commitment opportunities.
• Ensure donors receive timely, meaningful, and mission-focused reporting.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and Board members to prepare for and execute strategic donor engagement opportunities.
• Represent SPCA Cincinnati professionally and effectively in community and donor-facing settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Three to five years of successful fundraising, sales, business development, or relationship management experience.
• Demonstrated success securing gifts, sales, or investments through relationship-based strategies.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Experience managing multiple priorities and working independently.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Major gifts experience.
• Experience using Raiser’s Edge or a comparable CRM.
• CFRE credential.
• Experience working with volunteers or boards.
• Passion for animal welfare and community impact.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with SPCA Cincinnati covering 90% of employee premium costs.
• Flexible Savings Account (FSA).
• Employer paid Long Term & Short Term Disability and Group Term Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Three weeks of paid time off plus paid holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 5% employer match.
• Professional development support, including conferences, continuing education, certifications, and professional memberships.
• The opportunity to see your impact firsthand through direct connection to SPCA Cincinnati's lifesaving work.

Why This Role Matters

This is an opportunity to help build the next chapter of philanthropy at SPCA Cincinnati. The Major Gifts Officer will play a direct role in expanding the organization's capacity to rescue, heal, protect, and advocate for animals by securing the philanthropic investments that fuel long-term mission impact.