At the YMCA, they believe in the power of people and the potential that lives within each of us. As a leading charity helping tens of thousands of Albertans each year, they are committed to building healthier communities by breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for all. By joining their team, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that empowers individuals to shine—offering programs and support that foster belonging, growth, and lifelong wellness.

THE ROLE

The YMCA of Northern Alberta is seeking a dedicated and results-oriented Major Gifts Officer to join their fund development team and help to spark positive change in the community. This role is integral to securing significant financial support to advance the YMCA’s mission of improving the lives of children, youth, and families through community-focused programs throughout northern Alberta. Reporting to the Director of Fund Development, the Major Gifts Officer will lead efforts to cultivate relationships with major donors and help drive strategic fundraising initiatives.

THE CANDIDATE

• University degree in fundraising, communications, business or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in major gift fundraising or a related role, with a proven track record of securing five and six figure gifts. This includes research, case development and presentation and a commitment to donor stewardship and acknowledgement.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and donor databases; experience with Salesforce and the Nonprofit Success Pack is an asset.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop strategies to identify and engage prospective major donors (individuals, corporations, and foundations) within the YMCA’s donor network and through community outreach. Build relationships to encourage support for YMCA programs. 
• Lead face-to-face solicitation meetings, craft compelling proposals and deliver presentations for major gift opportunities. Secure five and six figure gifts. 
• Work closely with the Director of Fund Development, senior leadership, program staff and board members to align donor interests with organizational priorities. Support the development of fundraising campaigns and donor recognition events.
• Manage a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and institutional donors, ensuring high engagement and retention. Regularly update records in the CRM system and track progress toward financial targets.
• Represent the YMCA at community and donor events, networking opportunities and meetings with current and potential donors to promote the organization’s mission and vision.

Personal Characteristics

• Strategic Visioning. The development of a compelling shared vision that provides clear direction, goals and priorities and that facilitates the development of clear goals and responsibilities. Demonstrates a proactive, broad-based, long-term perspective on the organization by analyzing key trends and linking these to a strategy for success. 
• Passion for the Cause. For more than 100 years, the YMCA has bettered the lives of individuals in our community. Today’s world reflects a need for sensitivity and understanding of both circumstance and impact.  A passion for and commitment to the YMCA cause and purpose is vital.
• Diplomacy and Networking. Understanding and passion for the value of the YMCA and the ability to develop, retain and grow a strong network of relationships that will assist in achieving the goals of the organization. The ability to be discreet with others, take into account cultural differences and positional authority with the intent to build lasting internal and external relationships.

We understand and appreciate our clients’ ever-increasing desire for candidates to reflect the communities in which they work and live. The Vogel Group is committed to inclusivity and diversity as we search for outstanding leadership talent for our clients.

We encourage candidates of all ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, physical challenges, sexual orientations, and identifications to feel confident in exploring and declaring candidacy for any of our search assignments.

For a full profile or to apply, please contact:

Rick Vogel, ICD.D                       

Founding Principal                       

780.665.4965 ext. 101                  rick@thevogelgroup.ca