TWB Fundraising Blog

Major Gifts Manager: Marklund

Written by TWB Fundraising | May 8, 2026

Marklund seeks a Major Gifts Manager who is energized by relationship-building, strategic portfolio development, and the chance to help grow the fundraising program. This role is well-suited to someone passionate about building a major gifts program, eager to learn, and ready to take ownership of a portfolio with significant untapped potential.

Founded in 1954 when Claire and Stan Haverkamp opened their home to care for an infant with Down syndrome, Marklund has grown into a multi-campus organization serving children and adults with developmental disabilities through residential, educational, and community day services. Marklund’s vision is to provide a happy, safe, purpose-filled life for every individual with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Opportunity

The Major Gifts Manager will play a central role in increasing philanthropic support from individual donors, with a focus on gifts of $15,000 and above and the growth of the Marklund Always planned giving society. The ideal candidate will:

  • Two to five years of major gift experience
  • Partner closely with the Chief Development Officer and Director of Donor Engagement, and help shape the systems, tools, and strategies that will define Marklund's next chapter of philanthropic growth
  • Manage a portfolio of approximately 100-150 donors, including Leadership Giving Circle members and emerging major gift prospects
  • Conduct prospect research and partner with the CDO to identify potential major gift opportunities above $15,000
  • Steward members of the Marklund Always planned giving society and promote planned giving opportunities
  • Audit and assess current tracking and research tools to ensure Marklund has the systems needed to support a growing major gifts program
  • Support quarterly planned giving communications and integrate planned giving conversations into donor strategies
  • Work closely with the CDO and Director of Donor Engagement to ensure a seamless donor experience from acquisition
    through stewardship

The strongest candidates will have the ability to represent the disability and nonprofit field with credibility and to communicate program impact clearly to donors and community stakeholders.

Learn more about this role, including key responsibilities and qualifications: