Principal Gifts Officer

Department Statement

Colgate University, a top-ranked liberal arts college, is seeking a dynamic Principal Gifts Officer to play an integral role within a successful principal gifts program to help achieve a $1B Campaign goal. Founded in 1819, Colgate is a small, highly selective residential liberal arts college for students of talent who are preparing for lives of leadership and productive citizenship.

Colgate University has now entered its Third Century and the strong tradition of philanthropy and engagement continues. On an annual basis, more than 56% of Colgate’s alumni engage with the University through philanthropy, volunteering, or engaging at online and in person programs, including signature events like Reunion that draw in more than 2500 alumni and guests. This tradition of philanthropy paired with strong levels of alumni affinity position Colgate well for even greater success, as part of a comprehensive campaign to help execute theThird Century Plan.

The person in this role will be responsible for the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of a personal portfolio of individuals who are capable of making gifts at seven figures or greater. The ideal candidate will possess extraordinary communication skills, thrive in a metrics-based environment and be an open, achievement-oriented professional. The best-matched candidate will be expected to understand Colgate University’s history and feel comfortable leveraging its past to meet its ambitious future goals.

The successful candidate will be an equity-minded person who embraces and cultivates a culture of diversity and inclusion and who demonstrates a sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds present in the University community. The individual should be willing to contribute to a community that is committed to being inclusive, innovative, and equity-focused, which requires collaboration among faculty, staff and students, alumni and families.

Accountabilities

Responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with principal gift constituents as assigned to increase levels of engagement and philanthropy, including annual giving and campaign support by utilizing effective prospect qualification, cultivation and solicitation strategies.

Responsible for demonstrating respect for people and their differences, as well as the benefits of a diverse workforce, and the value of open and collegial dialogue.

Responsible for effectively accessing and navigating relevant technology systems used in advancement, and utilizing data as a resource in decision-making while maintaining respect for the security of private or confidential information. Responsible for developing strong working relationships with Office of Advancement colleagues, University administrators, faculty and staff to professionally address both opportunities and concerns.

Accountable for meeting performance metrics.

Professional Experience/ Qualifications

• The successful candidate will bring passion and enthusiasm for higher education and have at least 10-12 years of related experience, including a strong prior track record in cultivating and securing gifts at and beyond the seven figure range across a wide range of assets and gift arrangements
• This individual will have a demonstrated track record of successful partnerships with top-level donors and key volunteer stakeholders
• Superior written and oral communication skills, creativity and attention to detail
• Ability to articulate the value of higher education
• Ability to work with prospects and prospects’ advisors to structure philanthropic plans coordinated with the prospects’ financial, tax and estate planning
• An understanding of the important role of diversity, inclusion, and equity to advancement
• Ability to operate independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to collaborate closely with colleagues in advancement and across departments
• Proficiency in CRMs and/or databases is required. Experience with Blackbaud products appreciated
• The successful candidate will be a strategic, organized, enthusiastic team player who employs creative problem solving
• Remote work arrangements will be considered for individuals in the following states: NY, MA, CT, NJ, PA, MD, OH, TX, VA, GA, RI
• This position requires significant travel responsibilities with likely territories to include Florida and California
• Staffing Colgate’s annual Reunion weekend is a requirement of the position

Preferred Qualifications

Development experience in higher education, especially in a campaign setting

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree is required.

Job Open Date
09/16/2024

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled
Yes

Special Instructions Summary

EEO Statement

The University recognizes that equal employment opportunity can only be achieved through demonstrated leadership. It is the Policy of the University to recruit, employ, retain, promote, and train employees on the basis of merit, ability, and valid job qualifications without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable local, state or federal laws or Executive Orders.
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