Contemporary Calgary is excited to announce the creation of a new position in our organization, the Major Gifts Officer. As part of our growing
Development Team, the Major Gifts Officer will foster relationships with our major gift donor base and work with new and existing corporate partners
to help Contemporary Calgary achieve its ambitious and transformative goals.
About Contemporary Calgary
Contemporary Calgary provides Calgary and its visitors with a significant visual arts destination dedicated to modern and contemporary art. We
believe that art can foster conversation, encourage the exploration of new ideas, and ultimately transform the places we live and the lives we lead.
Contemporary Calgary is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse, respectful and inclusive environment that is reflective of
the community we serve. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates for this position.
How to Apply
Please apply with a cover letter and resume by August 21, 2023.
[email protected]
Subject Line: Major Gifts Officer
Not all applicants will be contacted for an interview
Job Title: Major Gifts Officer
Location: Contemporary Calgary, 701 11 St SW, Calgary, AB
Full or Part Time: Full Time
Hours of Work: 40 hours/week. Weekend and evening work is required.
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent
Salary: $60,000 per annum
Closing date: August 21, 2023
Reports to: CEO
Job Description
Under the direction of the CEO, the Major Gifts Officer is responsible for advancing the organization’s fundraising goals and objectives, including funding both operational and capital renovation and expansion projects. As the Major Gifts Officer, you will be responsible for developing and managing the existing major gift donor base as well as cultivating new prospect and donor relationships. You’ll be expected to inspire and collaborate with team members from across departments and be persuasive in communicating the mission and goals of the organization to generate major gifts.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and oversee a fundraising plan for all aspects of fund development, including but not limited to major gifts. Corporate sponsorships and supporting the annual fundraising gala will be a large part of the responsibility of this position.
- In collaboration with the CEO and the Board of Directors, manage a major gifts strategy as part of an overall fundraising plan.
- Establish and track overall development goals through the annual budget process together with the CEO, Fund Development Committee, Campaign Committee and Finance Department.
- Manage a portfolio of approximately 100 existing major donors and ensure that the appropriate point of contact within the organization is defined.
- Make direct, face-to-face solicitations and assist the board and other staff/volunteers with their solicitations (e.g. provide
support/case materials, strategic counsel, and help with donor communications). - Support the CEO and Board of Directors on major capital campaigns, including the capital campaign for the Centennial Planetarium.
- Be the main point of contact between Contemporary Calgary and contracted fundraising or consultant resources
- Develop strategic sponsorship programs to support Contemporary Calgary’s goals and ambitions. Work to offset operational expenses by obtaining funding from sponsors for specific programming in collaboration with the curatorial staff.
- In collaboration with the other Development staff, generate reports for the CEO and Board of Directors.
- Research, propose and implement a legacy-giving strategy.
- Take a leadership role in identifying and establishing institutional policies, practices, and direction to achieve the objectives of the Strategic Plan.
- Lead donor research and cultivation and provide an appropriate briefing to Board and staff members; work with staff to research and develop future prospect lists.
- Collaborate closely with the Marketing team to develop case statements and ensure that all development materials are accurate, timely and compelling.
- Improve, maintain and manage a donor database/CRM including a moves management system.
- Ensure that appropriate recognition, stewardship, and reporting occurs for all donations.
- Other responsibilities as required to support the mission of Contemporary Calgary
Skills, Experience & Traits
- A seasoned development professional with a solid understanding of and experience with all fundraising techniques, including major donor solicitation, corporate sponsorship/support, annual fund development and special events
- A genuine interest and passion for the mission of Contemporary Calgary and working knowledge/background in the arts.
- A true people person with an outgoing nature, a self-starter and driven by results.
- Hands-on, with the knowledge and desire to improve upon current fundraising systems and infrastructure.
- Experience in coordinating events for cultivation and donor appreciation.
- Skilled at translating organizational priorities into inspiring, donor-centric cases for support.
- Ability to prioritize effectively and handle multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously; flexibility and excellent time management skills.
- A team player capable of developing, guiding and implementing strategic development plans in partnership with the CEO, board members and other key staff and volunteers.
- A strong communicator who is able to effectively articulate Contemporary Calgary’s mission, programs, and accomplishments to funders, prospects, and other relevant parties, including the community as whole.
- Superior interpersonal skills to develop and maintain a broad range of relationships, both internally and externally. Ability to develop relationships of trust and respect with colleagues, volunteers, donors, patrons, and partners.
- Excellent written, presentation and communication skills with the experience and inclination to be an effective spokesperson for Contemporary Calgary.
- Superior organizational and time management skills to determine priorities and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced and resource-lean environment
- Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and experience using a CMR/donor database.
Qualifications
- 5+ years experience working in fund development, with a minimum of 3 years in a senior development role in a cultural institution.
- Bachelor’s degree ideally in a field of study that compliments Contemporary’s Calgary mission and vision. CFRE is an asset.
- The ideal candidate has the ability to travel within Calgary and provide their own transportation (preferred but not required)
