LA Opera is looking for a Major Gifts Officer (MGO) to join our Development department. The MGO is a key member of the frontline fundraising team who identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards donors to support the mission and programs of LA Opera. This role is particularly focused on annual gifts of $3,500 to $24,999. The MGO builds and cultivates relationships with LA Opera donors to deepen engagement and increase philanthropy and serves as an ambassador for the organization and our programs when interacting with donors and prospects. The MGO collaborates with development staff and leadership to ensure the success of the department, including providing support for events such as the annual gala and quarterly board meetings.

This is a full-time administrative staff position based out of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. Presently there is hybrid work flexibility, with the possibility of working remotely up to two days a week in many weeks. Some evening and weekend work is required, in addition to regular office hours, related to performances and events.

The anticipated annual salary range for this role is $72,500 to $92,500. This position is eligible to participate in LA Opera benefit programs, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; life and long-term disability insurance; 403(b) retirement savings plan with a company match; cell phone stipend; Employee Assistance Program; subsidized parking or public transit reimbursement; and complimentary and discounted tickets.

Primary responsibilities 

• Develop and execute personalized cultivation plans for donors and prospects, primarily focused on those giving $3,500-$24,999 annually 
• Cultivate, solicit, and secure four- to six-figure gifts for restricted and unrestricted purposes 
• Coordinate and lead regular face-to-face meetings with donors 
• Attend all LA Opera performances and events 
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of LAO’s programming and funding priorities  
• Work closely with the Director of Major Gifts and development leadership to align major gift strategies with overall fundraising goals 
• Provide regular updates and reports on major gift activities and progress 
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of donor interactions and contributions in Tessitura (CRM) 
• Stay informed regarding trends and best practices in major gift fundraising 

Below are the requirements and preferred qualifications for this role:

• At least several years of frontline fundraising experience at a non-profit arts organization, university, hospital, or comparable setting with a track record of securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and donor databases/CRMs and ability to quickly learn new applications 
• Ability and willingness to acquire knowledge about opera and have meaningful engagements with donors about the art form
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills, with an ability to tailor engagement strategies effectively 
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills 
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to ask questions 
• Patience, flexibility, and facility with both abstract and concrete assignments   
• Strong organizational and project management skills 
• Availability for approximately 50 evening/weekend events each season
• Personal transportation for donor meetings and events across LA County (eligible for mileage reimbursement)

We are committed to a workplace in which everyone is treated respectfully and has equitable opportunities, and we are seeking a Major Gifts Officer who champions and demonstrates this commitment. 

To apply:

Please apply here.  If you don’t meet all the criteria listed above but you believe you have what it takes to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply and tell us about yourself in your cover letter. 

Individuals of identities that are underrepresented in arts administration are especially encouraged to apply.

About LA Opera:

LA Opera (LAO) is a mission-driven, non-profit organization that plays a significant role in the cultural life of Southern California. Hundreds of LAO employees and artists help bring to life world-class opera that preserves, promotes, and advances the art form while embodying the diversity, pioneering spirit and artistic sensibility unique to Los Angeles.

Our productions are experienced by more than 100,000 audience members each year at our home at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. We reach many more through our community and school programs and Off Grand performances in venues across Los Angeles.

LA Opera is an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any legally protected categories. Individuals of identities that are underrepresented in arts administration are especially encouraged to apply.