Major Gifts Officer

Organizational Overview: College Unbound (CU) is an accredited and state-approved college whose mission is to reinvent the higher education experience for underrepresented returning adult learners. Through rigorous and engaged scholarship, College Unbound integrates students’ own purposes for learning with the needs of their workplaces and communities, improving the lives of the students and the lives of those they touch. Started in RI, College Unbound now supports students across multiple states and looks to continue to develop an infrastructure to support this developing model.

Position Summary: As CU expands nationally, we are building philanthropic partnerships to support this growth. The Major Giving Officer (MGO) will report to the Chief Advancement Officer and play a key role in securing five- and six-figure gifts from individuals and families nationwide. This position offers the opportunity to shape CU’s major gifts program during a pivotal period of expansion. The MGO will develop and manage a portfolio of 75–100 prospects and work closely with CU leadership, board members, and alumni to communicate CU’s impact and engage donors. This role is ideal for a strategic, relationship-centered fundraiser who excels at identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and closing significant gifts. The position includes a competitive salary, strong benefits, and a flexible, mission-driven work environment.

We are searching for qualified candidates in the following cities: Providence, RI; Philadelphia, PA; Seattle, WA; or Chicago, IL

Required Qualifications:

• 5–7+ years of fundraising experience, with a track record of closing five- and six-figure gifts.
• Entrepreneurial spirit and comfort working in an independent environment.
• Deep commitment to CU’s mission and vision for changing the higher education landscape and advancing equity through BA completion.
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills; ability to connect with and inspire diverse audiences.
• Strategic thinker with strong follow-through and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with CRM fundraising systems and data-driven donor management.
• Ability to travel regionally and nationally.