Major Gift Associate & Administrative Team Lead

Major Gift Associate & Administrative Team Lead

Cornell University - University Major Gifts

Ithaca, NY | Hybrid Role

About University Major Gifts

Cornell University's Major Gifts department leads transformational philanthropy that advances the university's teaching, research, and public engagement mission. Working closely with university leadership, Major Gift Officers build and steward relationships with alumni, parents, and friends capable of making gifts between $250,000 and $10 million or more. The team operates with a collaborative approach, combining deep knowledge of Cornell's priorities and initiatives with personalized donor engagement strategies to create meaningful philanthropic partnerships that shape the university's future.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a skilled professional to serve as Major Gift Associate & Administrative Team Lead, combining leadership of a 5-6 person administrative team with high-level support for Major Gift Officers. In this role, you'll craft compelling donor communications, coordinate strategic engagement opportunities, and work closely with university leadership while managing essential administrative operations for the Major Gifts program. This position offers the unique opportunity to both lead a team and play a crucial role in advancing Cornell's mission through philanthropy, making it ideal for an organized, articulate professional who excels at building relationships and managing complex projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Support 3-5 Major Gift Officers by developing persuasive proposals, correspondence, and stewardship materials for donors capable of making gifts between $250K and $10M+
• Lead and mentor a team of 5-6 administrative professionals, fostering their growth and ensuring exceptional support for the Major Gifts program
• Create engaging briefing materials and communications for university leadership, including the President, Provost, and Deans
• Coordinate donor cultivation strategies, campus visits, and special events
• Build and maintain deep knowledge of Cornell's priorities and initiatives to effectively connect donors with meaningful giving opportunities

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of relevant experience
• Exceptional writing abilities with a talent for persuasive communication
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment
• Experience managing confidential information with discretion
• Proven track record of building collaborative relationships
• Commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Proficiency with databases and standard office software

Rewards and Benefits

Cornell receives national recognition, as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity initiatives. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive health care options
• Access to wellness programs
• Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
• Generous retirement contributions
• Leave provisions including three weeks of vacation and 12 holidays
• Impressive educational benefits including tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, Tuition Aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance program
• Learn more about benefit opportunities

This position is based in Ithaca, NY with hybrid work arrangements.

No Visa Sponsorship is available for this position.

Familiarize yourself with Cornell's COVID-19 workplace guidance as well as the university's COVID-19 services and information.

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Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

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EEO Statement: Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

Minimum Salary: 31200.00 Maximum Salary: 31200.00 Salary Unit: Yearly