OVERVIEW
The Zoo Miami Foundation is seeking a high-performing, relationship-driven Director of Major Gifts & Capital Campaign to lead major gift strategy and play a critical role in launching and executing a transformational capital campaign.
This role is responsible for driving new business, building a robust pipeline of high-net-worth donors, and securing leadership-level gifts, while also managing and growing an existing portfolio of major donors.
The Director will work closely with the Chief Advancement Officer and senior leadership to identify opportunities, open doors, and close significant philanthropic investments that advance the Zoo’s mission and long-term vision.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Major Gifts & New Business Development
- Build, manage, and grow a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors ($25,000+)
- Lead new donor acquisition efforts, identifying and cultivating high-capacity individuals
- Develop and execute strategies to secure five-, six-, and seven-figure gifts
- Conduct ongoing prospect research to expand the donor pipeline
- Partner with board members and leadership to leverage networks and generate new opportunities
- Maintain a high level of activity, including a minimum of 5+ external donor meetings per week.
Capital Campaign Leadership
- Support and help the planning and execution of ZMF’s multi-year capital campaign
- Identify and secure leadership and early-stage campaign gifts
- Develop tailored proposals aligned with campaign priorities (habitats, conservation, education, infrastructure)
- Track and manage campaign pipeline, pledges, and performance metrics
- Participate in campaign strategy, donor engagement planning, and reporting
Donor Stewardship & Engagement
- Cultivate long-term relationships through personalized engagement and stewardship strategies
- Work with the Chief Advancement Officer to Design and execute meaningful donor experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours and mission-driven activations
- Work with the Chief Advancement officer to create stewardship plans to ensure donor retention, upgrade, and continued engagement
- Collaborate with internal teams to deliver impactful donor communications and recognition
Event Engagement & Support (All Hands-on Deck Culture)
- Play an active role in Zoo Miami Foundation’s signature fundraising events, including: Zoo Run, Feast with the Beast, Monster Masquerade
- Participate in event setup, execution, and breakdown alongside the team
- Engage donors and prospects during events to deepen relationships and drive future giving
- Provide support for Zoo Miami events as needed, including Zoo Boo and Easter programming
Collaboration & Leadership
- Work closely with the Chief Advancement Officer and Advancement team to meet revenue goals
- Collaborate across Corporate Partnerships, Events, Membership, and Grants teams
- Utilize CRM systems (Salesforce) to manage pipeline, track activity, and forecast revenue
- Participate in weekly pipeline meetings, strategy sessions, and team huddles
EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree; advanced degree, CFRE or 5–7+ years of experience in major gifts, capital campaigns, or high-level fundraising/sales.
- Proven success securing five- and six-figure gifts (seven-figure experience preferred)
Work Location: In person
