Major Gifts Officer

Job Description

The Shrine's Development Department is experiencing significant growth, allowing us to expand our team and deepen our relationships with the generous benefactors who make our mission possible.

We are seeking a Major Gifts Officer to cultivate meaningful relationships with donors who are passionate about supporting the mission of the Shrine. This position is an opportunity for an experienced development professional to combine fundraising expertise with a love for the Catholic faith and a desire to invite others into greater participation in the life and mission of the Church.

Position Summary
The Major Gifts Officer serves as a relationship manager for a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors. This position is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding benefactors through personal engagement, meaningful communication, and mission-centered storytelling.
The ideal candidate is a practicing Catholic with strong fundraising experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build authentic relationships grounded in trust, faith, and shared commitment to the Shrine's mission.

Key Responsibilities
Manage and cultivate a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors through personal visits, correspondence, calls, and meaningful stewardship.
Build relationships with benefactors by sharing the mission, impact, and spiritual significance of the Shrine.
Conduct regular donor visits throughout an assigned region, including occasional travel with Shrine leadership and development colleagues.
Prepare and present major gift proposals and charitable giving opportunities.
Partner with donors to identify opportunities for meaningful philanthropic support.
Maintain accurate donor records, activity tracking, and relationship notes within the Shrine's Salesforce CRM.
Collaborate with the Development team to strengthen donor engagement and maximize opportunities for mission advancement.
Represent the Shrine as an authentic ambassador of its Catholic identity and devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Qualifications
Practicing Catholic in good standing with a strong understanding of and appreciation for the Catholic faith and the mission of the Shrine.
Bachelor's degree preferred in business, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field.
3-5+ years of successful fundraising experience, preferably in major gifts, nonprofit, or faith-based development.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills.
Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships and secure significant philanthropic support.
Experience with donor databases and CRM systems preferred.
Knowledge of charitable giving strategies, including donor-advised funds, appreciated securities, and planned giving opportunities, preferred.
Working Conditions
Remote position with frequent regional and national travel required for donor visits and Shrine engagements.
Ability to travel to the Shrine in La Crosse, Wisconsin for team meetings, retreats, and major liturgical events.
Valid driver's license required.
Ability to transport materials and supplies as needed.

About the Employer

The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin, faithful to the message of the Blessed Virgin Mary through her appearances on the American continent in 1531, serves the spiritual needs of those who suffer poverty in body and soul. It is a place of ceaseless prayer for the corporal and spiritual welfare of God's children, especially those in most need.