Major & Planned Gifts Officer (Contract Position)

The Major and Planned Gifts Officer is an independent contractor position that is responsible for developing and managing relationships with donors and prospects capable of making significant philanthropic contributions to JVS. This position will provide guidance in the creation and implementation of strategies to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors for both major gifts ($1,000+) and planned gifts (bequests, trusts, other deferred giving vehicles, and non-cash gifts).

The position plays a key role in ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of JVS by aligning donor passions with organizational priorities. This position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of JVS’ mission, and a passion for helping donors fulfill their philanthropic goals.

Responsibilities 
 

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 25-50 major gift donors and prospects
• Execute moves management and implement customized cultivation and solicitation strategies for each prospect 
• Enlist leadership and board members in the cultivation and solicitation of major donors and prospects that integrates into the overall department goals and plans
• Conduct regular face-to-face and virtual visits to advance relationships
• Collaborate with leadership, board members, and program staff to engage donors in organizational initiatives 
• Prepare written proposals, gift agreements, and other donor correspondence
• Achieve annual fundraising goals for major gifts revenue and activity metrics 

• Collaborate with Chief Philanthropy Officer to build a planned giving program, including committee and collateral creation and cultivation strategies 
• Manage and grow a pipeline of planned giving prospects through targeted outreach, marketing, and education 
• Provide expertise and guidance on planned giving vehicles (e.g., bequests, charitable gift annuities, trusts, beneficiary designations) 
• Work with donors and their advisors to structure and document planned gifts
• Oversee administration of planned gifts in collaboration with legal, financial, and administrative staff 
• Develop and promote planned giving recognition program

• Ensure timely and meaningful stewardship of all assigned donors
• Maintain accurate and thorough donor records in Raiser’s Edge
• Provide regular progress reports, forecasting, and analysis to Chief Philanthropy Officer

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with a proven ability to meet deadlines; able to effectively prioritize, delegate, and execute multiple tasks.
• Ability to be self-directed and highly flexible in daily work.
• Ability to work effectively in an environment that is multicultural and multilingual.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to develop positive working relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency in Word, Excel, Google Docs and internet-based communication.
• Must have a valid Missouri or Kansas Driver’s License and a verified safe driving record and reliable means of transportation for local travel. Must provide a copy of license

• 1099 Independent Contractor
• Approximately 10-15 hours per week
• Anticipated duration: January - September 2026
• Primarily remote, with some in-office meetings required
• Rate: $35-40/hr (depends on experience)