Major Gifts Officer

Do you want to make a measurable difference in the lives of children and families in Southeast Wisconsin? Are you a fearless relationship-builder who thrives on connecting with people and securing transformational support?

Penfield Children’s Center is seeking a Major Gifts Officer to cultivate, deepen, and expand relationships with high-potential investors. This is a mission-driven role for a self-starter who excels in building trust, making strategic outreach, and inspiring philanthropy.

At Penfield, we ensure children experience positive early development from pregnancy through age five, providing a foundation for lifelong success. We currently serve 1,500 children annually, and by 2035, our goal is to reach over 16,000 children. This ambitious vision depends on strong relationships with investors who share our commitment to children and families.

The Major Gifts Officer will play a pivotal role in advancing this mission by securing meaningful philanthropic investments, helping expand our reach, and directly impacting the lives of thousands of children. You’ll report directly to the Vice President of Partnerships & Investments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and actively manage a robust portfolio of approximately 150 high-potential donors and prospects, ensuring each receives intentional, relationship-driven engagement.

• Demonstrate confidence and consistency in proactive outreach, especially picking up the phone, initiating personal connections, and scheduling meetings to cultivate deep, lasting relationships.
• Apply strong relationship-building skills to advance donor conversations, uncover motivations, and align investor passions with Penfield’s mission.
• Utilize proven experience securing gifts of $10,000+, including six-figure commitments, to guide thoughtful cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Conduct steady, personalized contact through calls, emails, meetings, and touchpoints that move relationships forward and inspire significant philanthropic investment.