We are seeking a dynamic, motivated Major Gift Officer to join our development team and play a central role in the success of this campaign. If you are ready to leverage your fundraising talents toward a cause that matters, and if you are seeking a role that's more than a job — this is the moment to join CNC.
Job Description
Cincinnati Nature Center is seeking a dynamic, motivated Major Gift Officer to play a central role in the success of our $60 million From Great to Extraordinary campaign.
Cincinnati Nature Center (CNC) is entering a transformative moment. Through our $60 million From Great to Extraordinary campaign, we are shaping the future of conservation, education, and community connection for decades to come. This is more than a fundraiser's job; this is a rare opportunity to partner in a generational vision.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a dynamic, motivated Major Gift Officer to join our development team and play a central role in the success of this campaign. The right candidate is someone who:
Doesn't just meet expectations, they set them.
Has proven (or potential) major-gift savvy, and wants to grow into something extraordinary.
Thrives in a mission-driven, values-centered environment.
Is strategic, resourceful, relationship-oriented — and energized by forging deep donor partnerships that stand the test of time.
If you are ready to leverage your fundraising talents toward a cause that matters, and if you are seeking a role that's more than a job — this is the moment to join CNC.
Key Responsibilities
As Major Gift Officer, you will:
Manage a focused portfolio (approximately 85 high-potential prospects), building and deepening relationships with individuals capable of major and lead-level gifts.
Own the full donor lifecycle for your portfolio: identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, closing, and high-touch stewardship.
Develop and execute personalized moves-management and donor-engagement strategies.
Engage proactively as part of the greater development team, working with senior leadership, board members, and volunteers, to coordinate major-gift activity and support campaign goals.
Contribute to planned giving and legacy-giving initiatives (e.g., support for the legacy society).
Represent CNC with professionalism, integrity, and passion in one-on-one donor meetings, site tours, stewardship events, and at community and campaign functions.
Act as a thoughtful ambassador for CNC's mission, articulating the long-term transformational vision of our work, and inspiring donors to invest in its future.
What We're Looking For: Ideal Candidate Profile
You bring:
Demonstrated ability (or strong potential) to cultivate and close major gifts; comfort working with high-net-worth individuals or families.
Strategic mindset: capacity to assess donor capacity, map moves-management plans, personalize donor engagement, and steward relationships over time.
Strong interpersonal skills: ability to build authentic relationships with donors, volunteers, staff, and leadership; exceptional listening, communication, and emotional intelligence.
Independence and initiative: you are self-driven, disciplined, creative, and thrive in a collaborative but agile environment.
Mission alignment: deep passion for conservation, environmental stewardship, and community impact.
Flexibility and resilience: comfort with some ambiguity, shifting priorities, and the natural unpredictability of donor relations and campaign work.
Professional maturity: integrity, judgment, accountability — someone who treats donor relationships as long-term partnerships, not transactions.
(While early- to mid-career applicants with demonstrated major-gift promise are welcome, we expect the selected candidate to be ready to perform at a high level from day one.)
Why This Role Stands Out
Campaign-level impact: You won't be just another MGO; you'll be a key contributor to a transformational $60 M campaign that will shape CNC for decades.
Meaningful mission & legacy: Work for an organization that creates real impact, for conservation, community, nature, and future generations.
Growth potential: As CNC evolves, there will be opportunities to grow in responsibility, leadership, and influence.
Collaborative yet nimble team: Join a tight-knit, experienced development team that values autonomy, initiative, and strategic thinking.
Autonomy and support: While you'll be part of a strong team and reporting structure, you'll have the independence and creative freedom to build donor relationships and strategies.
How to Apply
Please go to www.cincynature.org to submit a cover letter describing your interest in this moment at CNC, your fundraising philosophy, and a resume highlighting relevant major-gift experience or potential. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; we encourage early submission.
About Cincinnati Nature Center
Cincinnati Nature Center, founded in 1965, is a nationally recognized leader in environmental education and conservation with: 18,000+ member households, over 350,000 visitors per year, 120+ regular staff, 450+ dedicated volunteers, a $8M operating budget, a strong endowment, and two properties in Clermont County east of Cincinnati totaling about 1,800 acres.
If you're ready to be part of a team that's all about fostering a love of nature, apply today and let's get the next great outdoor adventure started! The position is currently open and will be filled as soon as the right candidate is found.
Cincinnati Nature Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to fair employment practices including conducting business without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, and any other protected class.
Resume Submission: must go through the application link
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