Head of Philanthropy & Principal Giving (Eastern US)

The role

The Head of Philanthropy & Principal Giving leads individual philanthropy strategy across the Eastern United States. This senior role focuses on building new relationships and securing major gifts to support a $250M campaign.

What you will do

• Lead individual major gift strategy across the Eastern United States
• Build and steward a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, families, and family offices
• Design individualized cultivation and solicitation strategies
• Secure 6- and 7-figure contributions for the $250M campaign
• Open new philanthropic networks and deepen presence among donors
• Create engagement opportunities through gatherings, events, and field experiences
• Serve as an ambassador for Acumen in East Coast philanthropic circles
• Maintain disciplined portfolio and pipeline management
• Partner with senior leaders to lead high-stakes donor conversations
• Manage a small team of direct reports in New York

Required qualifications

• At least 15 years of experience in major gifts, philanthropy, relationship management, or a closely related field
• Record of securing significant 6- and 7-figure individual gifts
• Meaningful network of high-net-worth individuals and philanthropic influencers, or evidence of building new networks
• Experience partnering with a CEO, founder, board members, or other senior leaders
• Authorization to work in the United States
• Ability to travel frequently within the region

Benefits

• Employer-sponsored health insurance with Acumen contributing 75%–85% of monthly premium
• Employer-sponsored vision & dental insurance
• 20 paid-time off days per year
• 11 paid U.S. holidays
• 4 observance days per year
• Up to 12 weeks paid family leave
• 9 sick days
• 5 bereavement days
• 401k retirement benefits including 3% employer contribution
• Discretionary, performance-based bonus ranging from 1%-18%
• Monthly commuter benefits

Before you apply

• Authorization to work in the United States

About the company

Acumen is a global force of entrepreneurs, investors, philanthropists, and social innovators working to build a world based on dignity. The organization focuses on investing in transformational companies and building sustainable markets to break the cycle of poverty.