Position Overview
As the Senior Manager, Individual Major Gifts, you will play a pivotal role in advancing a sustainable energy future by securing significant philanthropic support from high-net-worth individuals and family offices across California. You will steward a portfolio of 100–125 donors, focusing on principal gifts in the mid-six and seven-figure range, and drive at least $5 million in annual revenue to fuel high-impact climate and energy programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors, designing personalized engagement strategies to cultivate and secure transformative gifts
- Collaborate with senior leadership and program teams to align donor interests with strategic priorities such as clean energy innovation and resilience initiatives
- Represent the organization at meetings, events, and site visits across California, building trust and deepening long-term relationships
- Develop compelling funding proposals and stewardship reports that translate technical work into clear, mission-driven narratives
- Map and leverage networks to identify new prospects and create pathways for engagement with family offices and legacy donors
- Ensure accurate tracking and documentation of donor interactions in Salesforce to support data-driven decision-making and forecasting
- Lead cross-functional collaboration, ensuring alignment between development, executive, and program teams on donor engagement goals
- Contribute to team-wide development objectives through active participation in planning, strategy sessions, and internal task forces
Qualifications
Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree and bring at least seven years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a demonstrated track record of securing gifts of $100,000 or more. Proven success in managing complex donor pipelines, cultivating repeat giving, and partnering with senior leaders is essential. Experience in climate, energy, or environmental issues is strongly preferred.
Experience with planned and legacy giving is an asset. The role requires travel within California 25–35% of the time. Proficiency with Salesforce is expected.
Work Environment & Benefits
This is a hybrid position based in California, with flexibility to work remotely. The organization provides home technology support, a monthly work-from-home allowance, and covers travel costs for in-person engagements. Occasional team retreats and regional gatherings support connection and collaboration.
Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 403(b) retirement plan with immediate vesting and employer match; life and disability coverage; health savings and flexible spending accounts; fertility and mental health support; and generous paid time off, including parental and sabbatical leave.
Professional growth is supported through learning platforms, an annual development budget, and career advancement opportunities. Additional perks include voluntary benefits, a discount marketplace, and recognition programs.
Commitment to Equity
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Employees are supported through fair compensation practices, inclusive policies, and opportunities for development. We actively cultivate a culture where all individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute to global climate solutions.
This organization is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age (40 and over), race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, uniformed service membership, citizenship, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
