Another Source · 1 day ago
Senior Director of Development, Major Gifts - Occidental College
Another Source is proud to partner with Occidental College in recruiting a Senior Director of Development for Major Gifts to join their Institutional Advancement team in Los Angeles, CA. The Senior Director will play a pivotal role in advancing the College’s philanthropic vision by managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and leading a team focused on donor engagement and fundraising strategy.
Responsibilities
Manage and deepen relationships with a robust portfolio of 100–150 prospects capable of giving $100K+
Lead full life-cycle donor engagement: discovery, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship
Achieve annual expectations of 15–20 major gift proposals and 10–12 meaningful donor visits per month
Develop tailored solicitation strategies for assigned initiatives and regions while collaborating across the fundraising team on shared prospects
Craft compelling, well-prepared donor proposals aligned with donor motivations and institutional priorities
Partner with Gift Planning to secure planned gift commitments and advise donors on giving vehicles and options
Collaborate with the Individual Giving team, including support for the Oxy Fund and related priorities
Engage prospects as volunteers—including Board of Governors members, Parent & Family Council members, and challenge donors for key fundraising moments (Year-End, Day for Oxy, Reunion)
Identify and cultivate prospects beyond the traditional Oxy network when alignment exists with philanthropic priorities
Supervise, coach, and mentor frontline team member(s), providing strategy, support, and professional development
Provide constructive feedback to colleagues and lead with professionalism, persistence, and donor-centered strategy
Balance leadership responsibilities with high-level personal fundraising performance
Serve as an advocate for Institutional Advancement and actively support the division’s mission and priorities
Partner across all Advancement areas—including Advancement Services, Strategic Engagement, Principal Gifts, Planned Giving, and Corporate/Fdn Relations
Uphold industry ethics and standards, including CASE, APRA, and AFP guidelines
Participate in high-impact campus events (“tent-pole events”), including Homecoming & Family Weekend, Founders Day, Day for Oxy, New Family Orientation, and Reunion Weekend
Document all donor activity thoroughly and promptly in accordance with institutional policies
Follow College spending and expense guidelines and effectively manage planning for donor meetings and travel
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree
Fundraising experience in an academic environment and supervisory experience
Deep knowledge of fundraising principles, strategies, and best practices
Cultural competency and ability to engage donors from diverse backgrounds
Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism
Strong analytical skills and ability to present data effectively
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and related tools
High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Excellent oral, written, and digital communication skills
Effective interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across constituencies
Commitment to justice, equity, inclusion, and diversity
Ability to lead, motivate, and work across functions and levels with professionalism
Ability to self-direct, prioritize, and work independently
Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance options
Life insurance coverage
Free access to campus fitness and wellness facilities, including the swimming pool, tennis courts, gym, and weight room
On-campus wellness programs and classes, including discounted Weight Watchers
Participation in a 403(b) retirement savings plan
Access to Glendale Area Schools Credit Union membership, including financial services such as share accounts, checking, and credit options
Library borrowing privileges and access to the Academic Commons
10% discount at the Oxy Bookstore on most items
Discounts through the Working Advantage program for entertainment, travel, shows, and more