DeSales University
MAJOR GIFT OFFICER
OVERVIEW:
DeSales University, in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian, Catholic university, under the leadership of the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is located 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City. A total enrollment of nearly 3,500 includes undergraduate day and evening students, and graduate students. DeSales has approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers more than 40 bachelor's degrees, twelve graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs in a wide range of disciplines; many of these can be completed fully online.
In 2024, the University transitioned to a new academic structure featuring a four-college/school model, which includes the Kathleen Waterbury and J.B. Reilly School of Business; a College of Arts, Education, and Humanities with a School of Education and a School of Performing Arts; a College of Sciences; and a College of Healthcare Professions with a designated School of Nursing. For further information, visit www.desales.edu. EOE
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Major Gift Officer (MGO) plays a vital role in driving DeSales University's philanthropic efforts by developing and managing relationships with major donors, securing significant financial support, and fostering lasting partnerships. The MGO will work closely with the Institutional Advancement team to build and implement a strategy that maximizes gift potential from a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and other potential major donors. This role requires a strategic and motivated professional who can nurture meaningful relationships to advance the mission and long-term goals of the University.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree required in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, or related field; advanced degree or certification in fundraising is a plus Minimum of 5-7 years in major gift fundraising, with a proven record of closing major gifts ($25,000+) building donor relationships, and managing a portfolio preferable in a university or faith-based organization preferred Familiar with planned giving strategies and giving societies preferred Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to articulate a compelling case for support Valid driver's license with clean driving record Strong organizational and project management abilities with keen attention to detail Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment Proficiency with donor management systems (e.g., Slate, Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar CRM) and Microsoft Office Suite Willingness to travel locally and occasionally regionally for donor visits; availability for evening and weekend events as needed Dedicated to the mission of a small, Catholic, liberal arts institution
DeSales University is an EEO employer - M/F/Vets/Disabled
OVERVIEW:
DeSales University, in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian, Catholic university, under the leadership of the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is located 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City. A total enrollment of nearly 3,500 includes undergraduate day and evening students, and graduate students. DeSales has approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers more than 40 bachelor's degrees, twelve graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs in a wide range of disciplines; many of these can be completed fully online.
In 2024, the University transitioned to a new academic structure featuring a four-college/school model, which includes the Kathleen Waterbury and J.B. Reilly School of Business; a College of Arts, Education, and Humanities with a School of Education and a School of Performing Arts; a College of Sciences; and a College of Healthcare Professions with a designated School of Nursing. For further information, visit www.desales.edu. EOE
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Major Gift Officer (MGO) plays a vital role in driving DeSales University's philanthropic efforts by developing and managing relationships with major donors, securing significant financial support, and fostering lasting partnerships. The MGO will work closely with the Institutional Advancement team to build and implement a strategy that maximizes gift potential from a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and other potential major donors. This role requires a strategic and motivated professional who can nurture meaningful relationships to advance the mission and long-term goals of the University.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree required in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, or related field; advanced degree or certification in fundraising is a plus Minimum of 5-7 years in major gift fundraising, with a proven record of closing major gifts ($25,000+) building donor relationships, and managing a portfolio preferable in a university or faith-based organization preferred Familiar with planned giving strategies and giving societies preferred Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to articulate a compelling case for support Valid driver's license with clean driving record Strong organizational and project management abilities with keen attention to detail Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment Proficiency with donor management systems (e.g., Slate, Raiser's Edge, Salesforce, or similar CRM) and Microsoft Office Suite Willingness to travel locally and occasionally regionally for donor visits; availability for evening and weekend events as needed Dedicated to the mission of a small, Catholic, liberal arts institution
DeSales University is an EEO employer - M/F/Vets/Disabled