Donor Relations Officer, Development Specialist
The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.
Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.
The opportunity:
The Major Gifts Officer plays a key role in advancing fundraising priorities for assigned faculties, schools, and departments. Reporting to the Director, Major Gifts, the incumbent is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies that align with unit goals and drive increased major and planned gifts. This role involves managing all phases of the donor cycle – discovery, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship – while collaborating with Donor Relations staff to support prospect research, stewardship planning, and pipeline development. The successful candidate will work closely with senior volunteers and donors considering significant contributions to the university.
The qualifications and experience we’re looking for:
- University Bachelor's degree is required.
- Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation or other professional designation is preferred.
- 7 years of experience in successful fundraising with 2 years of experience in major gift solicitation is required.
- A proven record of successful major gift fundraising is required.
- Success interacting with the public in a wide variety of settings is required.
- Experience in public speaking and making presentations is required.
- Successful experience in making cold calls is required.
- Sound knowledge of laws, practices and philosophy of charitable giving is required.
- Experience with higher education fundraising is an asset.
- An acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication (both written and verbal), public speaking and presentation, facilitation and negotiation skills required.
- Ability to manage multiple projects from conception to completion with tightly prescribed timelines required.
- Ability to take initiative and work collaboratively with donors, alumni, academic and administrative staff, students and volunteers required.
- Must be a highly energetic professional with a track record of building donor relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to plan, organize and supervise activities required.
- Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to work independently are required.
- Demonstrated ability to guard confidentiality is required.
- Skilled in computer applications is required.
- Must have demonstrated record of completing assignments.
- Must be able to work independently and be self-motivated in initiating contacts with potential donors
- Must be able to articulate the case for support so that individuals "buy in" to the vision/mission/goals and with sufficient effectiveness to secure gifts at assigned donor giving levels.
- Satisfactory work record, including satisfactory attendance and punctuality, is required.
Why the University of Manitoba?
Along with being one of Manitoba’s top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes:
- Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan.
- Competitive vacation time.
- Employee and Family Assistance Program.
- A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.
Closing Date: August 15, 2025
Applications will only be accepted if you apply on UM Careers.
The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).
If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.
Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $65,875.80-$107,998.80 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
