Director, Major Gifts

For over 145 years the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg has been at the heart of communities in Winnipeg – helping people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities live engaging, more rewarding lives. We’re an inclusive, charitable organization that is committed to nurturing the potential of children, teens and young adults, families, and seniors by promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. To learn more about us, visit ywinnipeg.ca/our-cause.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Vice President, Philanthropy, Marketing & Government Relations, the Director, Major Gifts plays a pivotal role in advancing the mission and impact of YWinnipeg. This role is dedicated to building and strengthening relationships with individual and corporate donors at the $5,000+ level, with a strong focus on current and upcoming Capital Campaigns and the YMCA Strong Kids Sponsorship program.

As an externally focused leader, the Director is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting new major gift prospects while stewarding existing supporters to foster long-term, meaningful engagement. By creating strong partnerships and delivering exceptional donor experiences, this position helps ensure the continued growth of YWinnipeg’s community presence and its ability to serve children, families, and communities across the region.

Why work at the Y? 

• A comprehensive benefits package comparable to some of Canada’s best employers
• A generous vacation entitlement that increases with years of service
• Complimentary individual membership to our Community Hubs with available family add-on so you can enjoy all our health, fitness and aquatics services
• An employer-matching pension plan
• Be part of an organization making a meaningful impact across Winnipeg and beyond
• Lead transformational fundraising initiatives that directly support children, families, and communities
• Join a collaborative, values-driven team committed to building healthy communities

Responsibilities

Donor Acquisition

• Proactively research and identify prospective donors at the $5,000+ level.
• Lead outreach and cultivation efforts to engage new supporters.
• Develop proposals and presentations aligned with donor interests and organizational needs.
• Maintain an active database of prospective supporters with regular tracking and updates.

Relationship Management & Solicitation

• Conduct in-person and virtual donor meetings to build relationships and secure gifts.
• Collaborate with internal teams to design personalized cultivation and stewardship plans.
• Support donor engagement for campaigns and strategic initiatives.
• Cultivate partnerships with community-minded businesses to grow major gift support.
• Actively contribute to the Heart of the City Capital Campaign and upcoming capital campaign for Camp Stephens.

Reporting & Collaboration

• Maintain timely and accurate donor records and revenue tracking.
• Provide regular updates, projections, and reports on portfolio progress.
• Participate in donor strategy sessions and planning meetings with leadership.

Qualifications

• Strong alignment with YMCA-YWCA Winnipeg’s Mission and Vision.
• Undergraduate degree/diploma in fundraising, database management, administration, or relevant field (or equivalent work experience).
• 5+ years’ experience in fundraising, with a focus on major gifts.
• Proven track record in major gift prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Experience with prospect research and donor profile development.
• Exceptional written, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Team player with resourcefulness and initiative.
• Proficiency in a donor database. 
• CFRE designation is considered a valuable asset
• Must provide a clear Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search & Child Abuse Registry Check.

Application Deadline: September 19, 2025

Accessibility Accommodation for Applicants

The Y is committed to providing an inclusive environment where diversity is welcomed and encouraged. If you require accommodation during any part of the recruitment or selection process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. This includes providing you with alternate formats of job postings.

Contact Hr@Ymanitoba.Ca

The Y is entrusted to provide a safe environment for children and vulnerable individuals. All applicants will be thoroughly screened through a review process including Police Record Checks with Vulnerable Sector Search and Child Abuse Registry Checks.