Director of Major Gifts

Overview

CPAL is seeking an experienced and dynamic, relationship-driven Director of Major Gifts to strengthen relationships with current and prospective major donors, defined at $50,000+. This role plays a key part in cultivating, securing, and stewarding major gifts primarily from individuals, while remaining open to aligned corporate partnerships and maintaining relationships with foundations. CPAL is looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and is excited to help continue building a portfolio of supporters.

This role is ideal for a passionate fundraiser who enjoys meaningful conversations, makes donors feel valued and connected, and brings the credibility and storytelling skills needed to represent a complex mission with humility and confidence.

Why we need you:

• To lead a major gifts strategy that drives CPAL’s growth, deepens donor relationships, and expands our base of support.
• To serve as a trusted steward of high-value donors, ensuring they feel connected, valued, and inspired by CPAL’s mission.
• To represent CPAL with professionalism and warmth in the Dallas philanthropic community, strengthening our visibility and credibility.

• Develop and execute a comprehensive major gifts strategy, managing a portfolio of individuals, foundation (in coordination with the Director of Development), and corporate donors.
• Steward high-value donors through consistent communication, in-person meetings, and tailored engagement plans.
• Plan and deliver donor and stakeholder experiences in collaboration with the Director of Development and external team, creating personalized cultivation opportunities.
• Partner with leadership to integrate major donor strategies into CPAL’s overall fundraising approach.
• Support donor tracking, moves management, and reporting in CPAL’s CRM (currently Boomerang, transitioning to Foundant).
• Represent CPAL at community and philanthropic events with credibility and enthusiasm.

Required

• 5+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a proven track record of cultivating and closing major gifts.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Skilled relationship-builder with exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Strategic thinker who can develop plans and also roll up their sleeves to implement them.
• Comfort with public speaking and representing an organization externally.
• Based in Dallas with the ability to attend regular in-person donor meetings and community events.

Preferred

• Highly organized with experience managing donor pipelines and CRM systems (experience with Boomerang or Foundant is a plus).

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off and holidays

For more information about CPAL, please visit: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Applications should include a letter of interest and a current résumé or curriculum vitae. We are eager to meet you! No agency or third-party candidates will be considered for this position. No phone calls, please.