Job Description

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community - UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM's impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba's Top Employers and one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

The opportunity:

The Development Engagement Officer, Principal Gifts is part of the team providing principal gift fundraising expertise, strategy and leadership to faculties, schools and departments. The incumbent reports to the Senior Director, Principal Gifts and is responsible for implementing and guiding the overall comprehensive fundraising plans and principal giving strategies for the university.

Major responsibilities include: developing fundraising strategies and administering the fund-raising cycle, including discovery, cultivation, advanced cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of Principal Gifts; drafting a range of correspondence and strategic options on behalf of senior leadership; leading special cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship projects; designing and implementing unique cultivation and engagement strategies for donors and volunteers; and participating in solicitation and stewardship calls as needed. The position will receive prospect clearance and pipeline management, research, stewardship and development assistance from the Donor Relations team.

The incumbent works closely with other senior External and Donor Relations staff including office of the Vice-President (External), heads of Major Gifts, Alumni Relations, Gift Planning, Advancement Services, and Stewardship, with the goal of ensuring an integrated approach in the areas of campaign planning, fund development, alumni relations, and stewardship in furthering the University's advancement goals.

Externally, the Development Engagement Officer, Principal Gifts interacts with current and potential donors and supporters including high-net worth individuals, corporations, foundations, community leaders and volunteers. They will also play a key role in supporting the cultivation and solicitation of principal gifts for the President, Vice-President (External) and Associate Vice-President (Donor Relations).

The qualifications and experience we're looking for:

University Bachelor's degree is required. Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation or other professional designation would be an asset. 7 years experience in successful fundraising , with 2 years of experience in major gift solicitation is required. A proven record of successful major gift fundraising is required. Success interacting with the public in a wide variety of settings is required. Experience with higher education fundraising is an asset. Experience in public speaking and making presentations is an asset. Experience being a volunteer is an asset. An acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Excellent interpersonal, communication (both written and verbal), public speaking and presentation, facilitation and negotiation skills are required. Skilled in computer applications is required. Must have excellent interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of completing assignments is required. Sound knowledge of laws, practices and philosophy of charitable giving is required Must be able to work independently and be self-motivated in initiating contacts with potential donors. Must be able to articulate the case for support so that individuals "buy in" to the vision/mission/goals and with sufficient effectiveness to secure gifts at assigned donor giving levels. Must be a highly energetic professional with a track record of building donor relationships. Ability to manage multiple projects from conception to completion with tightly prescribed timelines is required. Ability to take initiative and work collaboratively with donors, alumni, academic and administrative staff, students and volunteers is required. Demonstrated ability to plan, organize and supervise activities is required. Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to work independently are required. Demonstrated ability to guard confidentiality is required. Satisfactory work record, including satisfactory attendance and punctuality, is required.

Why the University of Manitoba?

Along with being one of Manitoba's top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes:

Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan. Competitive vacation time. Employee and Family Assistance Program. A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.

Closing Date: November 17, 2025

Applications will only be accepted if you apply on UM Careers.

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $75,875.80-$107,998.80 per year

Work Location: In person