Major Gifts Officer

We are a purpose-driven nonprofit with a dynamic staff culture.

With a meaningful purpose, motivated staff, and excellent benefits, working here will definitely have you smiling! The ADA’s headquarters is located in one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings, designed by a world-renowned architectural firm, and is close to public transportation.  With more than 350 colleagues, the ADA Staff are some of the most talented people in the Chicago, Washington D.C., and Boston area.

We were named a 2024 Best-in-Class Employer By Gallagher and Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune in 2019 and 2021! Come join our team!

The Major Gifts Officer is responsible for developing and executing strategies to secure major gifts of $10,000 or more from donors, foundations, and corporations. Key responsibilities include identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donor prospects to strengthen philanthropic support for the organization. In addition to securing annual major gifts, this position will lead efforts to expand legacy and planned giving opportunities, helping donors create a lasting impact while supporting the organization’s long-term sustainability.

The successful candidate will possess broad knowledge and experience in fund development and advancement operations, providing the insight needed to support effective organizational decision-making. Success in this role will depend on building relationships with new prospects while deepening engagement with existing donors to maximize charitable giving.

• Bachelor's degree or Experience in lieu of degree
• 5 years of fundraising and development experience, or 9 years in lieu of a degree
• Donor development, fundraising philanthropy, and competency with donor management software systems
• Knowledge of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Code of Ethics and Standards
• Thorough knowledge of major gift programs, philanthropic landscape, strategic planning, and major gift portfolio management
• Must have excellent verbal communication, writing, collaboration, negotiation, prioritization, and problem-solving skills
• Must be results-focused, strategic, a self-starter, influential, flexible, a creative thinker, and a problem solver
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and CRM Data Management System(s) such as Salesforce
• Travel may be required for donor cultivation/solicitations, for various events and locations
• Possible travel to annual meetings of ADA and regional/district meetings

• An advanced degree, designation as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience would be preferred