PHILANTHROPY OFFICER in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania at Longwood Gardens

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

We are seeking a full-time Philanthropy Officer to manage a portfolio of identified high-net-worth individuals, with the goal of building relationships to share philanthropic impact and secure support for Longwood Gardens’ mission-based programs and strategic priorities. Responsibilities include:

• Managing a portfolio of approximately 150 mid-level to major gift prospects ($10,000–$100,000+)
• Cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual and institutional donors through personalized engagement strategies
• Conducting regular donor meetings, both in-person and virtually, to deepen relationships and meet solicitation and stewardship targets
• Developing and presenting tailored proposals and stewardship materials
• Supporting the design and implementation of annual fundraising strategies as well as cultivation and recognition events
• Maintaining records in Raiser’s Edge NXT
• Forming and maintaining internal relationships that keep Philanthropy office updated on programming and initiatives
• Representing Longwood Gardens at internal and external events to promote giving opportunities
• Preparing reports, cases for support, and background materials in preparation for donor meetings
• Staying current with fundraising trends and best practices in donor relations

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A minimum of 5 years of fundraising experience, with hands-on experience as a frontline fundraiser
• A track-record of securing five- and six- figure gifts
• Comfort discussing blended gifts and various planned giving vehicles
• Excellent relationship management skills, and the ability to exercise good judgement in a variety of situations
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, and ability to articulate the mission and strategic priorities of the organization to stakeholders
• An entrepreneurial mindset, a positive attitude, and a sense of humor
• Demonstrated high degree of professionalism and ability to work with various groups, including Trustees, donors and executive leadership
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize when faced with competing deadlines
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evening and weekends, and occasional travel, is required
• Willingness to adhere to the AFP Code of Ethical Standards, ensuring all donor and prospect data is handled with the highest level of confidentiality, accuracy, and security

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.