Director of Major Gifts

📋 Description

• • Are you a seasoned fundraising professional with a proven track record of cultivating and closing significant gifts from high-net-worth individuals and charitable institutions? Do you thrive in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where your contributions directly fuel technological innovation and societal impact? Signal Foundation is seeking an exceptional Director of Major Gifts to join our dedicated Development team. This is a pivotal, high-impact individual contributor role, designed for a proactive and results-oriented leader who is passionate about securing the resources needed to sustain and scale our groundbreaking technology.
• • As the primary engine for high-net-worth and charitable institutional engagement, you will be instrumental in shaping the financial future of Signal Foundation. This is not a role for someone who prefers to manage existing relationships or oversee administrative tasks; rather, it is an opportunity for a true builder and closer to take ownership of the entire major giving lifecycle. You will be empowered to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward prospects capable of making six- and seven-figure commitments, thereby playing a critical role in advancing our mission.
• • Reporting directly to the President, you will collaborate closely with Signal's senior leadership, including technical experts and program leaders. Your ability to translate complex technical challenges and ambitious project roadmaps into compelling, accessible philanthropic narratives will be paramount. You will need to deeply understand our work, articulate its significance, and connect it to the philanthropic interests of potential major donors, ensuring they see the profound impact their investment will have.
• • Key responsibilities will include developing and executing a comprehensive strategy for identifying, qualifying, and cultivating prospective major donors. This involves leveraging research, networking, and existing relationships to build a robust pipeline of individuals and institutions aligned with Signal's mission and funding priorities. You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of high-potential prospects, developing personalized engagement plans, and orchestrating meaningful interactions with them.
• • A significant part of your role will involve crafting compelling proposals, case statements, and other fundraising materials tailored to the specific interests and giving capacities of each prospect. You will be adept at presenting these opportunities persuasively, both in writing and in person, and will be comfortable navigating complex discussions about funding levels, impact metrics, and long-term partnership potential.
• • You will be expected to conduct face-to-face meetings, virtual presentations, and other forms of engagement to build strong, trusting relationships with donors and their advisors. This includes understanding their philanthropic goals, motivations, and decision-making processes, and aligning Signal's opportunities with these factors.
• • Closing six- and seven-figure gifts will be a primary objective. You will possess the confidence, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills necessary to guide prospects through the decision-making process and secure significant commitments. This requires a deep understanding of philanthropic vehicles, gift structures, and stewardship best practices.
• • Beyond securing new gifts, you will also be responsible for the effective stewardship of existing major donors. This means ensuring that donors are kept informed of the impact of their contributions, that their philanthropic intent is honored, and that opportunities for continued engagement and increased support are identified. Building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships is key to sustained major gift success.
• • You will work collaboratively with the President and other members of the leadership team to set ambitious yet achievable fundraising goals and to develop strategies for meeting them. This includes participating in strategic planning sessions, providing input on fundraising priorities, and contributing to the overall development of the organization.
• • This role demands a proactive, self-motivated individual who can work independently and manage their time effectively in a remote setting. You will be comfortable navigating ambiguity, taking initiative, and driving results without constant supervision. Your ability to build rapport, influence stakeholders, and articulate a clear vision will be essential for success.
• • Ultimately, you will be a key player in ensuring Signal Foundation has the financial stability and growth required to continue its vital work in developing and deploying technology for the public good. Your success will be measured by your ability to build and grow a sustainable major gifts program that significantly contributes to the foundation's overall fundraising objectives and long-term vision.