Program Director - Major & Planned Giving

Company : Essentia Health

Location : Duluth, MN, 55802

Posted Date : 2 October 2025

Job Type : Full Time

Category : Project Management

Occupation : Program Director

Job Details

Job Description:

Reporting to the East Market Executive Director, the Program Director of Major & Planned Giving is responsible for managing a portfolio of donors with the purpose to engage and manage planned and estate gifts for the Essentia Health Foundation. The role is responsible for the implementation of day-to-day administration of the foundation’s planned giving program by promoting estate and planned gifts through multiple platforms. The position will partner with the affiliate foundation boards, local program manager/director and our systemwide development staff, to ensure their strategy and plan aligns with that of the health system, and that their process and programs are coordinated with the health system.

Education Qualifications:

Key Responsibilities:

Manage and optimize a major gift portfolio of planned giving prospects of 50 to 60
Responsible for developing relationship strategies for effective donor engagement and stewardship of constituents in donor portfolio
Work closely with foundation leadership to implement best practices for a planned giving program while also managing a portfolio of donors
Leverages relationships with colleagues, regional and system board members to identify, connect with, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors
Monitor, track and report on donor relationship progress with metrics as compared to agreed upon goals
Expand legacy and planned giving
Ability to present, plan, and update results of fundraising plan to leadership
Strategically manages foundation budget items related to planned giving needs and program
Work in collaboration with research and service team to develop any necessary data lists, proposals, assets, events, or marketing materials to support Foundation plan
Maintains a solid understanding of the main areas of need based on our current strategies
Oversees planned giving initiatives, in coordination with local team member and services team, to support and expand constituent participation and encourage major and planned gifts

Educational Requirements:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of related experience

Required Qualifications:

4 years of relationship management, development, marketing, sales, or the equivalent experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with CRM (Client Relationship Management Software), for example Raisers Edge or Sales Force
CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive)
Law degree preferred

Certification/Licensure Requirements:

Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license as verified through appropriate licensing agency
Must meet the driving requirements and criteria acceptable to Essentia Health’s insurer
Proof of current motor vehicle insurance, including minimum State limits and without business exclusions

Employee Benefits at Essentia Health: At Essentia Health, we’re committed to supporting your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with supplemental options to fit your needs. We offer a 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you plan for the future, and we invest in your professional development through training, tuition reimbursement, and educational programs. To help you thrive both at work and at home, we provide flexible scheduling, generous time off, and wellness resources focused on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Please note that benefit eligibility may vary. For full details, refer to your benefit summary or contact our HR Service Center at (218) 576-0000.

Job Location: Building D - Miller Dwan Medical Center - EH Duluth

Shift Rotation: Day Rotation (United States of America)

Shift Start/End: /

Hours Per Pay Period:

Compensation Range: $76315 - $114483 / year

Union:

FTE: 1

Weekends:

Call Obligations:

Sign On Bonus: