Development Officer

Job Summary

The Development Officer is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to secure significant financial support from individual donors, corporations, and foundations. This role will focus on the stewardship of all endowment donors, the identification and cultivation of new endowment donors, and the management of the annual scholarship event. The Officer will work closely with the Vice President of Advancement and other members of the development team to achieve fundraising goals and support the organization's mission.

Key Responsibilities

1. Stewardship of Endowment Donors:
• Develops and implements a comprehensive stewardship program for all endowment donors.
• Maintains regular and personalized communication with endowment donors, including acknowledgment letters, impact reports, and updates on organizational initiatives.
• Plans and executes donor recognition events and activities to honor and appreciate endowment donors.

2. Identification and Cultivation of New Endowment Donors:
• Conducts research to identify prospective endowment donors and develop strategies for engagement.
• Cultivates relationships with potential donors through personal visits, phone calls, and written correspondence.
• Prepares and presents compelling proposals to solicit major gifts for endowment purposes.
• Works collaboratively with board members, volunteers, and other stakeholders to expand the donor base.

3. Management of the Annual Scholarship Event:
• Leads the planning and execution of the annual scholarship event, ensuring its success in terms of fundraising and donor engagement.
• Coordinates event logistics, including venue selection, catering, program development, and guest speakers.
• Develops and manages the event budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and maximum return on investment.
• Works with the marketing and communications team to promote the event and ensure high attendance and participation.

4. General Fundraising and Development Activities:
• Collaborates with the Vice President of Advancement to develop and implement fundraising strategies and goals.
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date records of donor interactions and contributions in the donor database.
• Prepares regular reports on fundraising progress and activities for the Director of Development and the board.
• Stays informed about trends and best practices in fundraising and philanthropy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Business, Communications, Nonprofit Management) or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in major gift fundraising or a related field.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts and managing donor relationships.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency in using donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the organization.

Wage Range: $21.23 to $25.00 per hour plus generous benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage available
• Tuition Assistance (spouse and dependent eligibility)
• 10 Paid Holidays
• FSA, Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Protection Services, and more!

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their application, resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references via lasierra.edu/jobs  by September 12, 2024. References should have current knowledge of candidates’ professional work.

Certificates and Licenses

None

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory responsibilities

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and the risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Frequent travel by automobile is required.  A California driver’s license is required.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee may occasionally lift and /or move up to 10-25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision, Distance vision, Peripheral vision, Depth perception and Ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

Equal Opportunity Employer

 La Sierra University is a religiously qualified Equal Opportunity Employer with the right to prefer Seventh-day Adventists in hiring. Applicants are especially encouraged from women, minorities and persons with disabilities. Faculty and staff are recruited with specific attention to their membership in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.