Major Gifts Associate

Are you passionate about dance and looking to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant and collaborative environment? Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is excited to invite applications for the full-time, permanent position of Major Gifts Associate. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to grow their experience in major gifts fundraising. 

About Us: 
Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is a leading arts and education institution dedicated to excellence in dance training, community programming, and health initiatives. NBS has 300+ employees supporting programs ranging from professional ballet training, community engagement, and groundbreaking health initiatives. NBS fosters a collaborative, creative environment rooted in inclusion and continuous growth.  
 

The Role: 

The Major Gifts Associate supports the Advancement team at Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS),  work closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Senior Management to support the strategy, planning, and execution of fundraising activities focused on major donors. The Major Gifts Associate will conduct donor and prospect research, carry outdonor communications, coordinate donor cultivation and solicitation strategies, and supportdonor stewardship. The Major Gifts Associate will also support the management of a small portfolio of donors in collaboration with senior team members. The role also supports annual fundraising efforts, particularly Champion-level donors ($10,000+), as well as legacy giving initiatives as needed. 

Major Duties and Responsibilities 

• Build and maintain the Major Gifts donor pipeline using Raiser’s Edge 

• Track donor activity and prepare reports and action lists 

• Research prospective Major Gift and Champion-level donors 

• Participate in prospect identification and planning meetings 

• Support the development of donor solicitation strategies and individual donor plans 

• Attend and participate in internal and external meetings related to donor cultivation, stewardship, and renewals 

• Assist Senior Management, Director of Philanthropy and Relationship Managers with donor outreach and solicitation activities 

• Potential to manage a small portfolio of donors (approximately 20 prospects) within the first 18 months 

• Prepare internal briefing notes and background materials for donor meetings 

• Support fundraising communications, including proposals, letters, and presentations 

• Support donor cultivation and stewardship activities 

• Support legacy giving initiatives, including research for Future Steps (NBS’ legacy giving program) 

• Attend donor events (virtual and in-person) 

• All other duties as assigned 

Skills and Qualifications

• Post-secondary education, certificate or training in fundraising or arts management is an asset 

• Minimum 3 years working in a charitable sector and/or fundraising environment and minimum 2 years in a role with direct fundraising (donor-facing) responsibilities, ideally in a major gifts context 

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills 

• Creative, flexible and adaptable to changing priorities 

• Highly organized, detail-oriented and efficient 

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and goal-oriented environment 

• Demonstrated effectiveness in building, nurturing, and leveraging strong relationships with donors 

• Ability to adhere to organizational processes and deadlines 

• Ability to work independently and creatively, while at the same time functioning as a team member 

• Calm under pressure and problem-solving attitude  

• Knowledge and Understanding of fundraising and best practices 

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office 

• Strong working capabilities in Raisers Edge 

We value enthusiasm and a willingness to learn just as much as experience. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification listed. If you have strong interpersonal skills, a knack for problem-solving, and a passion for contributing to a creative and supportive environment, we’d love to hear from you! 

Compensation 

Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 annually, commensurate with experience and aligned with internal equity. 
 

Total Rewards 

• Health & Wellness Benefits: Dental, Health, Paramedical, Short & Long Term Disability, Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program 

• Standard 35-hour work week 

• Employer-matched Defined Contribution Pension Plan 

• Paid Vacation Time starting at 4 weeks 

• Commitment to Work-Life Balance 

• Development & Learning Opportunities 

• Discounted rates for Adult Ballet Classes at Canada’s National Ballet School 

• Discounted rates for all programs and items at our retail outlet 

• Subsidized lunch and snacks for staff 

• Collaborative and Inclusive work environment: Join our EDI Committee or Social Committee and participate in our fun employee events! 

Our Commitment to Equity & Accessibility 

NBS is committed to addressing systemic inequities in every facet of our organization, including programs, policies and practices. It is NBS’ top priority to build a remarkable and talented workforce that reflects the diversity of the City of Toronto. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, especially welcoming those with diverse intersectional identities who bring unique perspectives and contribute to the diversification of ideas.  

If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform us. 

Successful candidates must supply Canada’s National Ballet School with a Police Reference Check in accordance with the School’s Child Abuse/Sexual Abuse Prevention Policy; this will be coordinated through the Human Resources Department at NBS.