Principal Gifts Officer at Bentley University – Waltham, Massachusetts

Job Description Summary

Bentley University has partnered with Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Principal Gifts Officer. You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/7286

The Principal Gifts Officer (PGO) will be a highly strategic and results-oriented fundraising professional who secures transformational philanthropy to advance Bentley University’s most important priorities. The PGO will identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individuals— locally and nationally—who have the capacity to make mid–six-figure and larger commitments.

An independent and entrepreneurial thinker, the PGO will develop and execute sophisticated solicitation strategies that align donor interests with Bentley’s mission. This position requires a demonstrated ability to think strategically, act decisively, and work collaboratively across a matrixed advancement organization. The PGO will manage a portfolio of 50–100 high-capacity prospects, leveraging data analytics and technology to drive decisions and maximize results.

The PGO will work closely with senior advancement and institutional leadership to design, solicit, and steward transformational philanthropic opportunities. As a senior member of the frontline fundraising team, the PGO will also serve as a mentor and thought partner to other gift officers—modeling best practices in donor strategy, portfolio management, and collaboration.

Essential Duties:

The Principal Gifts Officer will

• strategically qualify, cultivate, and solicit individuals within the assigned portfolio, securing commitments of $500,000 and larger in support of university and campaign priorities;

• demonstrate independent judgment and strategic foresight in developing customized donor strategies that lead to long-term, transformational relationships;

• achieve and exceed annual goals for revenue, visits, solicitations, and key performance indicators;

• partner with Gift Planning colleagues to craft complex gift strategies, including blended gifts and gifts of non-cash or tax-advantaged assets;

• serve as a mentor and resource to major gift officers, offering guidance on strategy development, portfolio management, and donor engagement best practices;

• employ data-informed portfolio management, using analytics, research, and AI tools to identify, prioritize, and advance prospective donors;

• plan and participate in cultivation events—both locally and nationally—to strengthen relationships with prospects and inspire support;

• document all donor interactions in the university’s CRM, ensuring accurate, timely, and complete records of engagement and solicitation activity;

• prepare compelling donor communications, including correspondence, proposals, gift documentation, and briefing materials for university leadership;

• collaborate across University Advancement, including Major Gifts, Annual Giving, Gift Planning, and Corporate & Foundation Relations, to develop integrated strategies that support shared goals;

• partner with the Office of Alumni & Family Engagement and the Pulsifer Career Development Center to create opportunities for meaningful donor and volunteer engagement;

• cultivate relationships with key campus partners—including academic and administrative leaders—to align philanthropic opportunities with Bentley’s mission and priorities;

• collaborate with Donor Relations to ensure comprehensive and personalized stewardship experiences;

• develop and demonstrate a deep understanding of Bentley’s mission, culture, and strategic direction to articulate compelling cases for support;

• uphold advancement policies, ethics, and standards, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality in all donor and institutional matters; and

• represent Bentley University at events and meetings, including those requiring travel, evening, or weekend participation.

Minimum Qualifications

Bentley University seeks a Principal Gifts Officer with

• a commitment to the mission of Bentley University – to change the world with a transformative business education, integrated with arts and sciences, that inspires and prepares ethical leaders who will confront the challenges of today and shape the opportunities of tomorrow;

• experience successfully closing seven-figure+ gifts, including blended gifts and commitments involving complex assets;

• an ability to develop and execute sophisticated donor strategies;

• an ability to work strategically, independently, and with an entrepreneurial attitude;

• experience building relationships with high-net-worth individuals, leading to transformational philanthropic outcomes;

• exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to convey Bentley’s mission and impact to diverse audiences;

• mentorship experience and a collaborative leadership style that fosters teamwork and professional growth among colleagues;

• proficiency with CRM systems and Microsoft 365;

• an ability to manage data, create reports, and leverage technology for efficiency;

• strong organizational and analytical skills, with an ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines with attention to detail;

• a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in professional practice and workplace culture; and

• an ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive information appropriately

• a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 10 years of progressive frontline fundraising experience, including a proven record of closing sevenfigure+ gifts, including blended gifts and commitments involving complex assets.

• Must hold and maintain a valid, unrestricted United States driver's license, with an insurable driving history as determined by Bentley's insurance carrier.

Work Environment:

• This role will focus primarily on work in the Florida region. Candidates who are based in Florida or who bring prior experience or familiarity with the Florida territory (e.g., regional markets, partners, or stakeholders) are strongly encouraged to apply.

• This role offers a flexible work arrangement, combining in-person attendance with remote work. On-site presence is required based on business needs, team collaboration, or scheduled meetings. Scheduling specifics will be determined in conjunction with the manager. As with any flexible arrangement, this is subject to change based on business needs.

• PGO must be able to travel by car, train, plane and public transportation as position will require overnight and day travel

• Evening and weekend work is occasionally required for events and donor meetings.

• Bentley University conducts reference and background checks as part of the hiring process.

Bentley offers a total rewards package designed to attract, motivate, retain, and reward employees. This includes competitive market-based compensation, robust benefits, career development and opportunities, paid time off, a positive and engaging employee experience, and more. The hiring range for this position is $160,000/year - $195,000/year. Final pay will depend upon experience and relevant qualifications.

Bentley University requires references checks and may conduct other pre-employment screening.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Bentley University strives to create a campus community that welcomes the exchange of ideas, and fosters a culture that values differences and views them as a strength in our community.

Bentley University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, building strength through diversity. The University is committed to building a community of talented students, faculty and staff who reflect the diversity of global business. We strongly encourage applications from persons from underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, covered veterans and those with diverse experiences and backgrounds.