DIRECTOR, MAJOR GIFTS

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION TITL E : Director, Major Gifts

POSITION SUMMARY:

Scripps Research, one of the world's leading biomedical research institutes, is seeking a strategic, entrepreneurial, and relationship-driven fundraising leader to join our Philanthropy team as Director of Major & Principal Gifts. At a moment of scientific momentum and growing ambition, this role offers the opportunity to connect visionary donors with the discoveries and priorities that will shape the future of human health.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Development, the Director of Major Gifts will manage a portfolio of approximately 50-75 of the Institute's highest-priority prospects and donors, each with the capacity to give $1 million or more. The Director will develop transformational gift strategies, and will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward seven-figure and larger gifts that advance institutional priorities and special initiatives.

Success in this role depends on partnership across a complex, science-driven institution. Working closely with senior leadership, faculty scientists, Trustees, volunteers, and Development colleagues, the Director will develop compelling funding opportunities that align donor passions with Scripps Research's most important work. The Director will also join colleagues in pursuing special funding opportunities that may engage prospects outside of their assigned portfolio.

The ideal candidate will bring a record of securing seven-figure gifts, the ability to lead and influence in a complex environment, and the entrepreneurial instincts to shape strategy, move opportunities forward and help build processes as the program grows.