Major Gifts Officer

California Trout is a highly recognized, effective and financially strong conservation based non-profit headquartered in San Francisco. Soon to celebrate its 40th anniversary, CalTrout has championed a remarkable number of initiatives focused on protecting and restoring wild trout, steelhead and salmon and the watersheds in which they live. Included among its many accomplishments is the California Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the re-watering of the Mono Lake basin, and protection for the entire course of the Smith River.

CalTrout has five conservation offices around the state and works closely with a number of universities to apply "the best of science" to direct conservation projects and influence statewide policy. It engages closely with the communities and agencies in which it is based to form strong collaborative partnerships and ensure a viable and healthy future for fish and water given the looming threats of global warming, population growth, and increasing development. CalTrout is backed by a passionate Board along with highly committed donors and a strong membership base.

Position Overview:

The Major Gift Officer will report directly to the Executive Director and work closely with the ED, Conservation Director, and the Board Development / Chair Committee to define the strategies and tactics to fund the organization's short and long-term conservation programs (including multi-year capital campaigns). This individual is expected to be able to clearly articulate CalTrout's vision and value proposition and summarize our conservation efforts at the appropriate level of detail with donors and prospects.

They will manage annual gifts and oversee the annual giving cycle including the cultivation of new and existing major donors / prospects. While this individual is expected to form meaningful 1x1 relationships with major donors, the "ask" responsibility will be shared among the ED, CD and MGO. The MGO will also assist in the planning and execution of major fundraising events including CalTrout's annual fundraising benefit and multiple smaller fundraising events.

Responsibilities:

• Develop major donor strategies and plans, including segmentation, retention and migration tactics, along with ED and Development Committee Chair
• Drive donor / prospects stewardship plans and tactics and oversee an acknowledgement system
• Formulate the annual budget that integrates all elements of the major gifts program and make accurate assumptions about short and long term income and expenses
• Facilitate and organize all critical major donor meetings and events
• Track and organize all critical donor / prospect data and research in CalTrout's Raiser's Edge database
• Assist with coordination and fundraising associated with 350-400 person annual benefit gala
• Effectively communicate and partner with CalTrout staff, Board and Development Committee

Qualifications:

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree and 7+ years of related non-profit and /or fundraising experience
• Strong interpersonal skills and confidence to engage with sophisticated donor base and prospects
• Experience in coordinating fundraising events
• Familiarity and passion for conservation / environmental causes
• Appreciation for fly fishing a BIG PLUS
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills, research abilities, and attention to detail
• Experience with Raiser's Edge fundraising software
• Ability to travel on occasion and work evenings and weekends

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented individual to contribute, learn and grow as part of a growing Cal Trout team. As such, you will be part of a fun, dynamic group working in a fast paced, energized and dynamic atmosphere.

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience; health benefits (medical, dental, and vision) included

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume by postal mail or e-mail by November 15th, to Jeff Thompson, Executive Director.

California Trout
870 Market St
Suite 528
San Francisco, CA 94102