Job Description

mothers2mothers (m2m) is a proudly African NGO that unlocks the power of women to end health inequities. We employ, train, and support women living with HIV as frontline health workers across sub-Saharan Africa--called Mentor Mothers. These women deliver life-saving health services, educate communities, and create brighter futures for millions of families. Since 2001, m2m has reached over 17 million women and children with critical health services and support, proving that when women lead, communities thrive. We have also partnered with governments on more than 10 major initiatives to scale our impact. Now, at a time of unprecedented disruption to funding models for NGOs, we are more determined than ever to achieve our dream of helping to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic by 2030, and create a future where health for all creates opportunity for all. That vision requires bold philanthropic investment -- and that's where you come in. For more information, visit www.m2m.org



Job Title
Director of Major Gifts
Organisation Levels
mothers2mothers -> m2m Head Office
Location
Cape Town - , 8000 ZA (Primary)

Type of position
Permanent
Education
Master's
Closing Date
3/10/2025

The Director of Major Gifts is responsible for designing and leading a major gifts strategy that fuels m2m's mission. This role will cultivate and steward relationships with high-net-worth donors (individuals and trusts and foundations), secure transformational gifts, and serve as a key architect in scaling the organization's impact through philanthropy and foundation funding. The Director will work closely with leadership, the Board, and cross-functional teams to inspire giving and foster a culture of major gift fundraising.

1. Major Gifts Strategy and Fundraising

Design and deliver a comprehensive major gifts strategy with ambitious, measurable goals. Lead the cultivation and solicitation of six- and seven-figure gifts, often in partnership with senior leadership and Board members.

2. Donor Portfolio Management and Stewardship

Manage, grow, and steward a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects. Ensure meaningful recognition, personalized engagement, and high-quality impact reporting to strengthen donor loyalty.

3. Collaboration and Case Development

Partner with program and communications teams to craft compelling cases for support and donor materials. Ensure donor communications clearly convey the organization's mission, vision, and impact.

4. Leadership and Culture of Philanthropy

Mentor and mobilize staff and Board members in donor engagement. Champion a culture of philanthropy across the organization to strengthen collective fundraising impact.

5. Data-Driven Donor Management

Utilize donor management systems (e.g., Salesforce) to manage, track, analyse, and report on donor engagement and giving trends. Use insights to inform strategies, decision-making, and resource allocation.

6. External Representation and Advocacy

Represent the organization confidently at donor meetings, events, and external engagements.Act as a trusted ambassador to inspire philanthropic investment and partnerships Job Requirements

Qualification and Experience

Must-Have:

Proven track record of securing transformational gifts ($500K+ preferred). Masters level degree in a related field and/or 10-15 years of fundraising experience, with at least 5 years focused on major or principal gifts. Exceptional relationship-building, listening, and communication skills. Strategic thinker with strong execution and results orientation. Experience with donor management systems (Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, or similar). Authentic passion for m2m's mission and the ability to inspire others.

Nice-to-Have:

Experience working in global health, women's empowerment, or international development. Familiarity with the philanthropic landscape in Africa and/or global markets. mothers2mothers is an equal opportunity employer. We particularly encourage applications from people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA), people with disabilities, women and previously disadvantaged people. Competitive salary packages will be negotiable in accordance with m2m's remuneration policies.