Major Gift Officer

Reports To: Major Gift Team Lead

Location: Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario (Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Position Summary

The Major Gift Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of making significant philanthropic contributions to support priority needs of Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN). Working closely with Foundation leadership, physicians, hospital staff, and volunteers, the MGO manages a portfolio of major gift prospects and plays a key role in advancing transformational fundraising initiatives that enhance health care for 10% of Ontarians.

Key Responsibilities

Major Gift Portfolio Management

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 100–125 major gift prospects and donors.
• Develop customized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for each prospect.
• Conduct donor meetings (virtual and in person) to advance relationships and secure major gifts.
• Document all interactions and moves management activities in the donor database.
• Proactively identify and advance legacy giving opportunities among portfolio donors as part of holistic relationship management.

Donor Cultivation & Solicitation

• Lead the development of major gift proposals, case statements, and impact materials.
• Work with Foundation leadership and hospital clinicians to identify compelling funding opportunities.
• Prepare and present personalized gift requests in the $25,000–$1 million+ range.
• Support and participate in capital campaigns, priority initiatives, and special fundraising programs.

Stewardship

• Ensure timely and meaningful stewardship plans for all major donors.
• Coordinate recognition activities, impact reporting, donor tours, and engagement opportunities.
• Build long-term, mission-centred relationships that encourage continued philanthropic support.

Collaboration & Internal Engagement

• Partner with hospital leaders, physicians, program directors, and Foundation staff to align donor interests with hospital priorities.
• Provide guidance to senior leadership, board members, and volunteers involved in donor-facing activities.
• Participate in team planning sessions, strategy development, and campaign progress meetings.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate donor records, contact reports, and moves management tracking in Raisers Edge.
• Provide regular progress reports and forecasting to Foundation leadership.
• Support the Foundation’s overall development operations, including events, communications, and community engagement as required.

What We’re Looking For

Education and Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in fundraising, major gifts, business development, or relationship management.
• Experience in a healthcare, hospital, or nonprofit environment is considered a strong asset.
• CFRE designation or working toward CFRE is an asset.

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to secure major gifts and manage a donor portfolio.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with high-net-worth individuals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and presentation skills.
• Strategic thinker with exceptional planning, organizational, and follow-through capabilities.
• High degree of professionalism, discretion, and ethical conduct.
• Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge and Microsoft Office.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends for donor meetings and events.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation for local donor visits.
• Police background check required.
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the WRHN Foundation and dedication to improving local healthcare.

What We Offer

• Salary Range: $86,700 – $102,000, commensurate with experience and success.
• Vacation: 4 weeks’ vacation plus 4 summer wellness days and additional float days
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, HOOPP defined-benefit pension, computer and mobile device provided.
• Work Culture: We offer a hybrid and flexible work environment, with regular in-person team strategy sessions and a minimum of two days per week in the office to support collaboration and connection.
• A mission-driven team where your voice matters and your professional growth is supported.

The Process

At WRHN Foundation, our team is united by a shared mission to inspire philanthropy and elevate healthcare across our region. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who bring curiosity, excellence, and a collaborative spirit to their work.

If you are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply with your résumé and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and enthusiasm for our mission.

We are committed to fair and accessible hiring practices. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please inform us and we will work with you to meet your needs.