Lead the Future of Philanthropy at CWI as a Sr. Director, Major Gifts! 

Are you an experienced fundraising leader with a passion for building relationships, securing major gifts, and driving philanthropic success? The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is seeking a Sr. Director, Major Gifts to play a key role in strategic donor engagement, campaign development, and institutional advancement. Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement/Chief Development Officer of the CWI Foundation, this leadership position offers the opportunity to build and shape the Advancement Division while fostering a culture of philanthropy that directly impacts student success and institutional growth. 

Why Join CWI? 

At CWI, we are committed to expanding access to higher education through philanthropic engagement. As the Sr. Director, Major Gifts, you will be instrumental in cultivating donor relationships, leading fundraising initiatives, and developing high-impact programs that advance CWI’s mission. 

Benefits: 

CWI offers one of the most affordable and comprehensive benefits packages in higher education, including premium healthcare plans, 11%+ employer retirement contributions, tuition discounts, and personal leave. 

Strategic Leadership Role: 

Shape and expand a professional Advancement Division, fostering major donor engagement and institutional support. 

Transformational Impact: 

Develop fundraising campaigns, corporate partnerships, and alumni relations initiatives to fuel CWI’s growth. 

Collaborative & Mission-Driven Environment: 

Work closely with executive leadership, campaign volunteers, and board members to create long-term philanthropic success. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Donor Guidance & Philanthropic Strategy 

• Develop and implement a strategic fundraising plan aligned with CWI’s mission and growth objectives. 

• Identify, cultivate, and manage relationships with major donors, corporations, and foundations. 

• Build a portfolio of high-level prospects, crafting personalized engagement and solicitation strategies. 

• Establish a culture of philanthropic excellence across the institution. 

Institutional Advancement Development & Leadership 

• Collaborate with the Vice President of Advancement to build and professionalize CWI’s Advancement Division. 

• Oversee and develop key advancement functions, including:  

• Major & Principal Gifts 

• Campaign Leadership 

• Corporate & Foundation Relations 

• Athletic Clubs & Sports Development 

• Strategic Initiatives & Special Projects 

• Collaborate with the Advancement Teams, ensuring effective donor stewardship and engagement. 

Fundraising Campaigns & Initiatives 

• Design and execute comprehensive fundraising campaigns that align with CWI’s strategic goals. 

• Partner with executive leadership, board members, and campaign volunteers to enhance fundraising efforts. 

• Monitor campaign performance, analyze data, and adjust strategies to maximize philanthropic impact. 

Donor Recognition & Stewardship 

• Develop and manage stewardship strategies to recognize and retain major donors. 

• Facilitate naming opportunities, scholarships, and donor recognition programs. 

• Ensure accurate and timely gift acknowledgments, impact reports, and ongoing donor engagement. 

What We’re Looking For: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (required); advanced degree preferred. 

• 8-10+ years of experience in philanthropy, fundraising, or institutional advancement. 

• Proven success in securing major gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations. 

• Flexibility and a willingness to collaborate effectively with the advancement team to get work done. 

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills. 

• Ability to cultivate relationships with diverse donors, stakeholders, and community partners. 

• Strategic thinker with experience in developing and executing fundraising plans. 

• Deep knowledge of fundraising best practices, industry trends, and ethical guidelines. 

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit fundraising (preferred). 

• Proficiency in donor management systems and fundraising software.