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ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEWUnited Way of Greater Atlanta (UWGA) is in the midst of transformational change and is embarking on new and different ways to raise and earn revenue so that it can accelerate and scale its mission to drive sustainable and equitable improvements in the well-being of children, families, and individuals in greater Atlanta. The mission remains the same: To bring together people and resources to drive sustainable and equitable improvements in the well-being of half a million lives across Greater Atlanta. The value proposition is to Unite Greater Atlanta to create, amplify and accelerate solutions that promote child well-being by addressing our communities’ most complex social challenges.These solutions and the backbone behind them are all in service of the organization’s bold growth ambition: Triple unrestricted revenue by 2029 to be the best-in-class investor in child well-being in Greater Atlanta, ultimately eliminating the barriers of one’s zip code as a hindrance to future success. This transformation will unleash the next generation of UWGA, putting UWGA on a growth pathway that will significantly amplify its impact by increasing its investment in solutions that can make a lasting difference for Child Well-Being in Greater Atlanta.DEPARTMENT OVERVIEWThe Major Gifts team plays a vital role in fostering meaningful philanthropic connections across our community. At United Way of Greater Atlanta, we are committed to sharing validated, data-driven insights that demonstrate the effectiveness and impact of our mission to improve child well-being. As ambassadors of this mission, our Major Gifts team leads with purpose—building trusted relationships with donors, aligning their passions with our work, and offering compelling reasons to invest in lasting change. While we are proud to be leaders in major and transformational giving, we recognize that successful fundraising is a shared responsibility. Every member of our organization contributes to creating the conditions that inspire generosity and ensure accountability to our donors. We are servant leaders who hold ourselves—and one another—to the highest standards, driven by a personal commitment to excellence and a deep dedication to the children and families we serve.JOB SUMMARYThe Principal Gifts Officer (PGO) is a key member of the United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Office of Development. The PGO is a senior leader in major, transformational and planned giving for the Office of Development and entire organization. This position will adhere to internal policies and best practices related to Major Gift and Multi-Year giving portfolio management and fundraising. This requires a senior level fundraising professional who will collaborate with the President's Cabinet, the Board of Directors, multiple Development Teams and other UWGA staff.&nbsp;The PGO brings deep expertise in donor engagement, stewardship, and strategic relationship-building to advance the organization’s philanthropic goals.<ul><li>Strategy and Implementation:&nbsp;Provide direction, planning, and implementation of strategies to drive proposal and gift growth for high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, planned giving donors, new markets and donors.&nbsp;</li><li>Portfolio Management:&nbsp;Build and manage a portfolio of 50-80 high net worth donors, family foundations, and other organizational prospects. Responsibilities include identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donor prospects in a dynamic, fast-paced fundraising environment.&nbsp;</li><li>Collaboration:&nbsp;Work closely with colleagues across departments, volunteers, boards, community leaders, and others. Must be collaborative, professional, innovative, responsible, and maintain a strong work ethic and attention to detail.&nbsp;</li><li>Expertise:&nbsp;Be well-versed in individual and family foundation stewardship, planned giving strategy and deliverables, fundraising strategy, and the art and science of individual fundraising. Write and produce high level donor solicitation proposals.&nbsp; Significant experience in collaborating with others to close gifts and managing individual portfolios is essential.&nbsp;</li><li>Engagement and Reporting:&nbsp;Implement and guide strategies for the retention, growth, and engagement of individual and family foundation donors, as well as new constituents. Report on at least 8 substantive visits per month.&nbsp;</li></ul>Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe PGO will be responsible for the following goals, duties, and responsibilities:&nbsp;<ul><li>Develop and execute the Individual donor identification, cultivation, and proposal development, at a net growth rate in revenue raised and membership consistent with both annual and multi-year strategic planning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Develop and execute the family foundation identification, cultivation and proposal development, at a net growth rate in revenue raised and membership consistent with both annual and multi-year strategic planning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Develop strategic plan for planned giving growth and awareness among existing donors and new donors.</li><li>Develop a strategy, plan, and stewardship of all donors, new donors and additional organization outreach.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Responsible for ensuring the successful execution of the strategic plan by working with the President, SVP of Revenue, VP of Major Gifts and multiyear giving, and appropriate team members and volunteers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Direct and execute all events and activities that support constituency recruitment, stewardship and engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Establish and manage a quality control system for family foundation, major donor, and planned giving marketing materials and communications, stewardship events etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Work with the Major Gift Team to develop individual strategic cultivation plans for individual donors and key family foundation donors and prospects.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure all Donor constituency data is currently entered into the system and appropriate to goals and outcomes.&nbsp;</li><li>Secure 80 approved face-to-face visits per year, no fewer than 8 per month.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Qualifying 15 new individual donors or family foundation portfolio level prospects.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Submitting a minimum of 25 major gift solicitations per year at the level required by this position.&nbsp;</li><li>Securing annual dollar goal as set by Development leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Making all contacts necessary via phone, email, other, to achieve the above-mentioned results.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Documenting all data necessary to track said goals through the timely submission of activity within the UWGA CRM, as required by internal policies.&nbsp;</li><li>Develop, implement, and manage a productive, fluid portfolio of 50-80 prospects through best practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Exceed all yearly revenue and metric-driven goals.&nbsp;</li><li>Promote collaboration, recognizing our shared goals, and regularly collaborate with colleagues within the Office of Development and other departments as needed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure the proper stewardship of individuals.&nbsp;</li><li>Increase awareness and knowledge among prospects, donors and other key stakeholders about the Child Well-Being Movement.&nbsp;</li><li>Develop a solid and detailed working knowledge of United Way’s funding priorities and products&nbsp;</li><li>Other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Development</li></ul><h2>Qualifications &amp; Competencies</h2>Qualifications &amp; Competencies<ul><li>Undergraduate degree required.</li><li>Extensive experience with high-net-worth individual donors, family foundations, foundation program development.</li><li>Ten plus years of progressive individual fundraising experience and planned giving experience, including the demonstrated ability to identify, cultivate, and close major gifts.</li><li>Advanced interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.</li><li>Organization skills for a fast-paced work environment.</li><li>Microsoft Office knowledge including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.</li><li>Experience with CRM/database management.</li></ul>Competencies&nbsp;A successful individual in this role will have:<ul><li>Ability to manage multiple projects, meet external needs while preserving internal relationships and meeting strict deadlines and requirements.</li><li>Entrepreneurial and highly energetic.&nbsp; Must be a self-starter and able to work effectively independent of direct supervision.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Highly Advanced fundraising skills and experience in working with executive and C Suite individuals, proposal development and writing ability and knowledge about planned giving, blended giving and gift agreements.</li><li>Exceptional skills managing individual donor portfolios and developing prospects from identification through solicitation while moving them towards increased giving.</li><li>Ability to think strategically and implement strategic policies and practices.</li><li>Ability to work collaboratively to achieve common goals, fostering cooperation, transparency, and communication.</li><li>The ability to motivate others through communication, modeling appropriate behavior, optimism and high achievement.</li><li>Openness to new ideas and their implementation.&nbsp; Ability to react and adapt to changing situations appropriately.</li><li>Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and organization.</li><li>Working knowledge of Microsoft Dynamic CRM, Raiser’s Edge, or similar CRM software.</li><li>Highly attentive to detail and exceptional grammar required.</li><li>Dedicated to shared and measurable goals and metrics.</li></ul>Preferred Qualifications<ul><li>Advanced Degree.</li><li>AFP CFRE certification.</li><li>Experience implementing and managing major gifts and planned giving programs and experience with programmatic and capital campaigns.</li><li>Demonstrated fundraising innovation, especially as it relates to portfolio management.</li><li>Successful solicitation of major gifts from individuals.</li></ul>IDEAL CANDIDATEA successful individual in this role will be:<ul><li>Optimistic and excited about the mission of United Way of Greater Atlanta.</li><li>Willing to work on a team and be a team player and to understand that all major gift team members ‘sweep the porch’.</li><li>Self-starter and strong attention to donor details and relationships.</li><li>Resilient and energetic, willing and able to pivot quickly.</li><li>Servant leader and committed to success of full team.</li></ul>

United Way of Greater Atlanta

Principal Gifts Officer

About the United Way of Greater Knoxville For more than a century, United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) has stood as a pillar of hope and innovation in East Tennessee. Today, we are a catalyst for systems-level change—convening stakeholders across sectors, championing community-driven solutions, and investing in the most promising strategies to improve lives and strengthen neighborhoods. Every year, UWGK mobilizes thousands of donors, volunteers, and partners in service of a bold vision: a community where every person can thrive. &nbsp;&nbsp; We are rooted in a belief that real change only happens when people come together. That’s why UWGK serves as both strategist and steward—connecting community needs with the resources, insights, and partnerships to address them. From increasing access to affordable childcare and nutritious food to fostering financial stability and educational opportunity, we drive results that matter. &nbsp;&nbsp; In 2024 alone, UWGK mobilized $8.5 million in support from over 4,500 individual and workplace donors and nearly 220 corporate partners to serve 655,482 individuals and families across the region. Through flagship initiatives like the East Tennessee Collaborative and Community Schools, we’re not just addressing symptoms—we’re tackling root causes of inequity with long-term strategies grounded in dignity, equity, and empowerment. &nbsp;&nbsp; Our approach is bold and evolving. We’re a lab for social innovation—piloting and scaling high-impact programs, reimagining nonprofit partnerships, and ensuring local organizations have the tools and trust they need to succeed. This includes initiatives like micro-centers for childcare access, afterschool tutoring networks, and unrestricted funding to help nonprofits strengthen their infrastructure and expand their reach. &nbsp;&nbsp; Above all, United Way of Greater Knoxville is about possibility. Whether helping a parent navigate their journey to financial independence, partnering with schools to close achievement gaps, or building healthier food systems with community voices at the center, UWGK exists to ensure that all of Knoxville’s residents—regardless of their background or circumstance—have the opportunity to build a better future. The Opportunity This is a defining moment for both the United Way of Greater Knoxville and the region it serves. The next Chief Executive Officer will step into a mission-driven organization with a bold vision, a dynamic team, and strong momentum—ready to deepen its impact, expand its reach, and reimagine what is possible for the people of Knox County. &nbsp;&nbsp; United Way of Greater Knoxville has earned a reputation as an innovator and trusted convener. The organization’s recent evolution reflects a deep commitment to equity, collaboration, and systems-level change. From redesigning how services are delivered in schools to championing new models of economic mobility, UWGK is doing more than responding to needs—it is proactively shaping the future of the community. &nbsp;&nbsp; The CEO will lead this charge, amplifying the voice and visibility of UWGK while steering its strategic and financial direction. They will be supported by a dedicated and capable team, a deeply engaged Board of Directors, and an extensive network of philanthropic, nonprofit, government, and corporate partners. For a mission-oriented leader, this is a rare chance to build something transformational—while surrounded by people who are ready and eager to partner in the work. &nbsp;&nbsp; Knoxville itself offers a welcoming, vibrant environment for professional and personal life. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to its entrepreneurial energy, the city is increasingly recognized as one of the country’s most livable and culturally rich mid-size metros. For a leader seeking purpose, community connection, and the chance to leave a legacy—this opportunity delivers on all fronts. Position Summary At United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK), we are changemakers building a stronger, more equitable community for all. We seek a visionary, collaborative, and action-oriented leader to serve as our next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). &nbsp;&nbsp; This is a dynamic opportunity for an executive who thrives at the intersection of strategy, community, and systems change. The CEO will lead with humility, authenticity, and strategic insight, championing community-driven solutions that address the root causes of inequity and advance lasting impact across our region. This leader will foster a culture rooted in integrity, accountability, and shared success. &nbsp;&nbsp; The CEO will serve as a visible and inspiring community leader, guiding a high-performing team of staff and volunteers, partnering closely with the Board of Directors, and convening stakeholders across the nonprofit, business, and government sectors. They will act as UWGK’s chief brand steward, building trust, relevance, and engagement across the Greater Knoxville region, including the counties of Claiborne, Grainger, Jefferson, Knox and Union. &nbsp;&nbsp; This role demands an experienced and strategic executive with a strong track record in organizational leadership, financial stewardship, and resource development. The CEO will be responsible for driving revenue growth through philanthropic partnerships, individual donor cultivation, and institutional fundraising. Equally important is the ability to build and sustain cross-sector relationships that strengthen UWGK’s role as a vital civic partner and a catalyst for systems-level change. &nbsp;&nbsp; The ideal candidate brings a record of success in nonprofit leadership, deep experience in community partnership, revenue generation and resource development, and a demonstrated ability to lead with integrity, vision, and cultural competence. Leadership Scope The Chief Executive Officer will lead and directly supervise the Executive Leadership Team, including the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Impact Officer, and other senior leaders critical to UWGK’s operations and mission advancement. The CEO also oversees the Executive Assistant and provides indirect guidance to department directors and emerging leaders across the organization, across a total team of 60+ staff. &nbsp;&nbsp; This role is responsible for cultivating a leadership culture that fosters accountability, strategic alignment, collaboration, and continuous development. The CEO ensures that all team members are empowered to contribute meaningfully to UWGK’s mission and are equipped with the tools, support, and shared purpose to succeed. Key Responsibilities<ul><li>Strategic and Visionary Leadership</li><li>Community Engagement and Impact</li><li>Fundraising and Resource Development</li><li>Financial and Operational Management</li><li>Board and Governance Leadership</li><li>Organizational Culture and Talent Development</li></ul> Required Qualifications and Experience<ul><li>Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior executive or board role within the nonprofit sector.</li><li>Deep understanding of community development, public-private partnerships, and the operational models of mission-based organizations.</li><li>Proven experience securing significant philanthropic, corporate, and institutional support.</li><li>Strong track record in strategic planning, organizational growth, and change leadership.</li><li>Demonstrated success managing complex budgets, business operations, and compliance functions.</li><li>Familiarity/working experience within communities comparable to Knoxville in terms of size, socio-economic diversity, cultural complexity, and political dynamics—with demonstrated experience building trust, addressing systemic challenges, convening across sectors, and driving community-wide impact through strategic partnerships and collaborative funding efforts.</li></ul>Leadership Competencies and Attributes<ul><li>Integrity and Character: Embodies the highest ethical standards, authenticity, humility, and emotional intelligence.</li><li>Visioning &amp; Strategic Thinking: Develops and communicates the organizational vision, translating it into actionable strategy and measurable outcomes.</li><li>Relationship Management: Builds and sustains deep trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders.</li><li>Equity-Centered Leadership: Exemplifies a commitment to inclusion, equity, and shared power.</li><li>Communications: Demonstrates a positive public presence and clear, persuasive communication across audiences.</li><li>Financial Acumen: Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and resource optimization.</li><li>Team Empowerment: Sustains a collaborative, respectful culture that fosters staff growth.</li><li>Change Agility: Integrates creativity, resilience, and adaptability in navigating organizational evolution.&nbsp;</li></ul>Living and Working in Knoxville Knoxville is a thriving mid-sized city that blends Southern hospitality, scenic beauty, and cultural vitality into one of the Southeast’s most livable communities. Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River, Knoxville offers the charm of a tight-knit city with the amenities, energy, and innovation of a much larger metro. For professionals, Knoxville is more than a great place to live—it’s a place to lead. The city is home to a vibrant and growing network of civic, nonprofit, and corporate leaders who are deeply engaged in making a difference. Whether in government, business, education, or the arts, collaboration and community-building are in Knoxville’s DNA. A key driver of this professional momentum is the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), a flagship public research institution that is integral to the region’s growth and innovation. UTK serves as a major partner to organizations like UWGK, offering robust opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, thought leadership, and talent development. Its presence fuels a culture of lifelong learning and civic leadership throughout the region. For those raising families, Knoxville offers an array of welcoming neighborhoods, high-quality schools, and easy access to outdoor adventures. From day trips to the Smokies to afternoons at the Knoxville Zoo or the Urban Wilderness trail network, families will find plenty to explore together. The city also boasts an expanding arts scene, year-round festivals, minor league and collegiate sports, and a celebrated culinary community. Knoxville is attractive to professionals at all life stages. Empty nesters and mid-career executives appreciate the city’s rich cultural offerings, walkable downtown, and affordability. Its cost of living remains well below the national average, offering an appealing blend of lifestyle and economic value. With quick driving access to Nashville (2.5 hours) and Atlanta (3.5 hours), Knoxville provides regional connectivity without the congestion of larger cities. It’s a place where community impact meets quality of life—and where leaders come to do their best work while living fully. DESIRED START DATE Fall 2025&nbsp; LOCATION&nbsp; The United Way of Greater Knoxville is located in Knoxville TN and currently requires a hybrid/in office work schedule. Relocation Assistance is available.&nbsp; COMPENSATION The United Way of Greater Knoxville offers a generous annual salary ranging from $180,000 to $230,000. The actual salary offer will depend on several factors, including educational qualifications, training, years of experience, and performance in previous roles. There is also an annual performance-based incentive that is part of the potential overall compensation. BENEFITS The United Way of Greater Knoxville will offer the new CEO performance-based bonuses, relocation assistance, and a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package. &nbsp;&nbsp; FOR INFORMATION &amp; TO APPLY The United Way of Greater Knoxville has retained Kay Linder, Partner within ThinkingAhead Executive Search’s Nonprofit Division to serve as our recruitment partner. If you are interested and qualified, please apply <a href="https://thinkingahead.com/job/405370/" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;Questions can be directed to: Kay Linder Partner, Nonprofit Division ThinkingAhead Executive Search <a href="mailto:klinder@thinkingahead.com" target="_blank">klinder@thinkingahead.com</a>

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