[Full-Time]
ABOUT US
Each year, the Carroll Center for the Blind helps nearly 1,300 blind or visually impaired children, adults and senior citizens gain the skills they need to live active and fulfilling lives. Our Newton campus houses our rehabilitation program, computer training classes, low vision store, and administrative offices. A large portion of our programs are services conducted in public schools, students’ homes, and their communities.
WHO WE SEEK
An experienced, results-driven fundraiser with a passion for building relationships, securing major gifts, and achieving ambitious goals to make a difference.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Development Officer will be a key leader in driving major and planned gifts for the Carroll Center and a strategic thinker who is entrepreneurial in approach, with a passion for community engagement and our mission. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to raise donor aspirations, build a strong culture of philanthropy, and articulate ambitious goals to both internal and external audiences. The SDO will be responsible for managing a portfolio of current and potential donors capable of making gifts of $50,000+ and legacy commitments. The role requires a strategic, relationship-driven approach to fundraising, working collaboratively with our dedicated development team, leadership, volunteers, and donors to create meaningful opportunities for philanthropic support.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage a portfolio of 125-150 high-value donors and prospects, continually identifying and cultivating new leadership and planned giving prospects.
- Conduct 10-12 donor meetings per month, including one-on-one visits, campus tours, and events, to foster relationships and deepen donor affinity for the organization.
- Develop customized solicitation strategies that successfully move donors through the gift cycle, align individual donors’ philanthropic interests with the organization’s mission and focus on closing gifts for the final phase of the Generations Campaign.
- Solicit and close gifts of $50,000+ and legacy commitments. Work with leadership, Board members, and volunteers on key solicitations, ensuring a thoughtful, collaborative approach.
- Develop strategies to upgrade donors from the Annual Fund to the $2,500+ leadership giving category.
- Design and execute stewardship plans for leadership and planned giving donors, maintain personalized communication to recognize their contributions and demonstrate the impact of their support.
- Prepare written briefings for senior leadership and staff for donor visits. Ensure all donor interactions are tracked accurately in the donor database, maintaining up-to-date records of gift commitments and planned solicitations.
- Support and engage in special events and donor recognition activities that promote the mission and recognize key supporters.
- Represent the organization at community and donor-focused events, fostering relationships with key stakeholders and promoting the organization’s mission.
- Perform other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, or a related field.
- 5-7 years of proven experience in major and planned giving, with a demonstrated ability to secure gifts of $50,000+.
- Expertise in fundraising strategies and a strong track record in frontline fundraising and donor relations.
- Proficient skills in using Microsoft Office and donor management databases (Blackbaud experience strongly preferred).
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage high-net-worth individuals, Board members, and professional advisors.
- Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail, with the capacity to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.
How to Apply
If you are interested in applying for this position, please complete the application form (linked below).
