[Hiring] Director, Major Gifts @Equality Now

Role Description

The Director, Major Gifts plays a pivotal role in advancing Equality Now’s global mission by leading and growing a major gifts portfolio, including gala sponsorships, mid-level giving, and donor engagement. In partnership with the Chief Development Officer and Chief Executive Officer, the Director translates Equality Now’s development strategy into actionable fundraising plans, strengthens donor pipelines and systems, and cultivates meaningful relationships with individuals, family foundations, and philanthropic networks.

• Innovate for Mission Expansion
• Serve as the senior lead for operationalizing the Individual & Major Giving strategy.
• Drive the execution and refinement of Equality Now’s high-touch major donor growth strategy.
• Partner with the CEO and CDO to support high-value donor/prospect cultivation.
• Provide strategic leadership to align all tiers of individual giving.
• Lead maintenance and continuous improvement of pipeline development and tracking practices.
• Lead/guide the development of donor-facing cases for support.
• Engagement: Advocate
• Manage a portfolio of high-value donors and prospects.
• Support CEO and CDO engagement with top-tier donors and prospects.
• Oversee and elevate the mid-level donor program.
• Engage and activate Advisory Board members and other supporters.
• Serve as an external ambassador for Equality Now.
• Ensure donor experiences reflect mission-driven, community-centered engagement.
• Strengthen departmental and cross-departmental collaboration.
• Delivery: Define Project Cycle
• Lead the operational management of the entire Major & Mid-level Giving portfolio.
• Implement and oversee strong systems for donor/prospect planning and tracking.
• Partner with the Manager, Annual Fund & Development Operations.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of high-impact donor events.
• Develop individualized donor strategies and annual engagement plans.
• Produce high-quality donor communications and materials.
• Ensure accurate reporting, analytics, and revenue projections.
• Drive continuous learning and adaptive planning.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in major gift fundraising and high-touch donor engagement strategies.
• Strong understanding or direct experience in event fundraising.
• Familiarity with global human rights, women’s rights, and gender equality funding landscapes.
• Proven ability to manage, mentor, and develop staff.
• Fluent in English; proficiency in Spanish, French, or Arabic is a plus.
• Exceptional donor relationship management and communication skills.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of meeting deadlines.
• Bachelor's degree required; Master’s degree or significant professional experience is highly desired.
• 10+ years of progressively responsible fundraising experience.

Requirements

• Demonstrated leadership experience focused on strategic delivery and operational excellence.
• Strong organizational, results-oriented, and adaptable skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally and domestically.

Benefits

• Base Salary Range: $120,000–$140,000 USD.
• Comprehensive total rewards package including health and retirement benefits.
• Generous leave and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a resume or CV and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on September 30, 2026.

Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Equality Now is strong because it is diverse. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Equality Now is an Equal Opportunity Employer.