Summary purpose of the job:
The National Catholic Reporter (NCR) is the only significant alternative Catholic voice that provides avenues for expression of diverse perspectives. The NCR is an independent news source with global interests, and although a large amount of its reporting deals with issues of the Catholic Church, an equal amount of its coverage is a marriage of the religious, political and social forces shaping public policies and institutions. We are concerned for all people and we are committed to shaping a world that recognizes the dignity of every human being, regardless of religious belief, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or other characteristics. Throughout our history, we have been a voice for the disadvantaged and the marginalized, and we have told the stories of injustice that others simply will not print.
The major gifts officer will report to the Chief Advancement Officer with a specific focus on developing major gifts, planned gifts, events, and foundation funding.
The Major Gifts Officer would be expected to:
- Research local, regional, national and international foundations whose giving interests match those of NCR; work to create an ongoing system based on timelines and priorities; and submit proposals and reports according to their requirements.
- Research and identify individual prospects for major gifts and planned giving.
- Build portfolio of prospects and sort them in a way that allows the most effective cultivation.
- Articulate NCR’s needs, values, and ambitions clearly through informal and formal communications, including written proposals and brochures.
- Design cultivation and solicitation plans for specific individuals and groups of prospects. The plans should provide a role for the members of the advancement team, the CEO, board members and other key staff members.
- Contact prospects – by mail, email, phone and in person – and establish major gifts relationships with them.
- Travel across the country 8-10 days per month to build relationships and solicit significant donations.
- Work with the development team for other fund-raising campaigns, including the annual gifts effort.
- Coordinate special events with key groups of donors and NCR staff.
The suitable candidate will be expected to have:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Minimum of five years’ fundraising experience
- Track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals
- Minimum of two years’ experience working with donors with significant capacity
- Excellent communication skills
- Excellent planning and organizational skills
- Familiarity with private and public sector grant processes
- Excellent research and analytical skills
- Team-oriented, flexible, positive, personable outlook and willingness to learn
- Proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team
- Passion for social justice, human dignity and the common good – all core values of the National Catholic Reporter
- Appreciation for and strong understanding of the history and mission of the National Catholic Reporter
- Appreciation for and understanding of news organizations and journalism
- Ability and willingness to travel regularly
- Ability and willingness to live in the Kansas City area
NCR offers competitive salary and benefits, including:
- Health, Dental, and Life Insurance; Long Term Disability, Group Annuity Program (403B), Employee Assistance Program
- Flex Benefits
- Generous Paid Vacation/Holiday/Sick/Personal Time
- A professional, but casual and welcoming work environment
How to Apply
Please send cover letter and resume to jobs@ncronline.org. If selected for an interview, applicants will be asked to provide references. No phone calls, please. The deadline for this position is April 21, 2017.