Senior Director of Major Gifts

Position description

Over the years, Upwardly Global has supported thousands of foreign-born skilled job seekers in transitioning from poverty or exclusion to quality, thriving-wage careers through its customized program and holistic approach to integrating skilled immigrants into the US job market. Upwardly Global is a data-driven, innovative organization with a bold vision and a fearless spirit operating out of four major US markets and providing remote services to several parts of the country. It is unwavering in its commitment to a diverse and inclusive culture where every voice matters.

The Opportunity

Are you a fundraising all-star and want to add value to an organization that is making meaningful changes at both the direct impact and systems change levels?

Do you want to work at a place that values your voice and contributions and rewards performance, helps you grow, and provides a healthy working environment?

Do you want to work with an engaging, forward-thinking, pragmatic, kind, and mission-driven organization known for its innovation and commitment to impact?

We’re seeking an experienced, strategic, and relationship-driven Senior Director of Major Gifts to lead Upwardly Global’s individual giving strategy alongside the Director of Annual Giving and the Director of Stewardship to drive transformational growth in our philanthropic revenue.

This is an exciting leadership role for a seasoned major gifts professional who excels at building and managing high-performing teams, engaging with high-net-worth donors, and shaping a vision for long-term fundraising success. The ideal candidate will combine strong frontline fundraising skills with strategic oversight of systems, stewardship, and donor engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Fundraising

• Lead the major gifts and individual giving program, overseeing strategy, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors at the $10K+ level.
• Manage a personal portfolio of high-net-worth donors and prospects, cultivating deep relationships and securing six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Develop and execute a multi-year growth plan for major gifts in partnership with the Chief Development Officer and CEO.
• Partner with the Development Operations team to ensure the donor pipeline, Salesforce systems, and reporting processes effectively support relationship management.

Team Management & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor a team of gift officers and donor engagement staff, fostering a collaborative, results-oriented culture.
• Partner closely with Finance, Communications, and Program teams to align fundraising priorities and impact storytelling.
• Collaborate with Upwardly Global’s leadership and Board to identify and engage new networks of philanthropic supporters.

Donor Stewardship & Engagement

• Design and oversee a robust donor stewardship and recognition strategy that deepens engagement and demonstrates impact.
• Plan and participate in donor events, briefings, and campaigns that advance major gift relationships.
• Represent Upwardly Global externally with authenticity, passion, and a clear articulation of our mission and results.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, with at least 5 years focused on major gifts or individual giving.
• Proven track record in building major gift pipelines through thoughtful and strategic prospecting; establishing pathways to engage lapsed donors, upgrade existing, and bring in new qualified donors.
• Proven success managing a personal portfolio of high-net-worth donors and closing six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams and integrate major gifts strategies with broader organizational goals.
• Strong command of fundraising systems (Salesforce NPSP preferred), donor pipeline management, and data-driven strategy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to inspire trust, convey impact, and connect authentically with diverse stakeholders.
• A strategic, entrepreneurial mindsetand passion for Upwardly Global’s mission to create equitable pathways to opportunity

Application instructions

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