The Senior Charitable Giving Officer is responsible for developing and executing a strategic plan to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors capable of making financial commitments of $5,000 or more to Valparaiso University. This role emphasizes donor acquisition and retention, with a particular focus on building long-term, multi-year relationships. The Sr. Charitable Gift Officer will manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors, driving efforts to increase unrestricted giving and support the University’s fundraising priorities.

Major Responsibilities:

Fundraising:

• Implement best practices in fundraising to grow the 1859 Society and President’s Society, prioritizing donor retention and acquisition.
• Manage a portfolio of 150 individual donors annually, identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors with the capacity to contribute $5,000 or more. Identify potential major gift donors.
• Achieve a 75% donor retention rate from the previous fiscal year.
• Acquire new donors to boost alumni participation and increase revenue.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of key annual fundraising campaigns, including Valpo Day.
• Meet annual giving fundraising targets by developing and executing comprehensive solicitation, stewardship, and communications strategies for donors contributing between $5,000 and $50,00.

Collaboration and Engagement:

• Partner with academic and development leadership to create targeted fundraising plans for assigned schools, setting specific goals to engage high-capacity donors.
• Work closely with internal and external partners, including volunteers as applicable, to enhance donor cultivation and solicitation efforts.
• Engage with alumni relations to improve event attendance, strengthen relationships, and ensure meaningful follow-up.

Performance Metrics:

• Use data-driven insights and key performance indicators to monitor and adjust donor strategies, ensuring best practices are followed and goals are met.
• Assume additional responsibilities as needed to support the growth and success of the University’s philanthropic efforts.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in fundraising.
• Demonstrated success in soliciting and closing gifts up to $50,000 and above.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with donors, volunteers, and colleagues.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to persuasively articulate the mission and goals of Valparaiso University.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
• Familiarity with fundraising CRM systems (e.g., Slate, Advance, etc.).

Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to cultural diversity and the ability to work with individuals or groups from diverse backgrounds.

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, background checks will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position, you must upload:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• List of 3 professional references
• Answer all the application questions

Please address cover letter to:

Christine Radtke, Assistant Vice President of Development

Valparaiso University