Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager

Organisation Overview

Carbon Positive Australia (CPA) is a charitable organization dedicated to restoring ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and creating lasting environmental and social benefits through large-scale forest restoration projects and urban pocket forests. We positively impact Australia's climate and natural environment by measurably improving the condition of Australia's natural ecosystems, biodiversity, and native vegetation at scale.

Position Summary

The Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager is a newly created leadership role responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies focused on major donors, foundation relationships, and legacy giving. This position will play a critical role in diversifying CPA's funding base and securing sustainable revenue streams to support our leading Regional Restoration and Community Pocket Forest Programs.

Key Responsibilities

Major Donor Development Program

· Develop High Net Worth Strategy by end of September 2025

· Create compelling cases for support that highlight comprehensive nature, carbon, and community impacts

· Design and manage cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship program for major donors ($50,000+ gifts)

· Organize site visits to showcase successful restoration projects and community pocket forests

· Maintain personal portfolio of 30-50 major donor prospects and current supporters

Foundation Relations and Granting Strategy

· Research and map private foundation landscape, including Private Ancillary Funds.

· Identify alignment between CPA's Regional Restoration and Community Pocket Forest programs with large foundation priorities.

· Develop compelling proposals for targeted foundations emphasizing biodiversity and community outcomes.

· Build relationships with foundation program officers.

· Support development of blended finance approaches combining philanthropy with impact investment.

Legacy Giving Program

· Oversee and grow the existing Legacy Circle program for bequest donors.

· Develop regular touchpoints and recognition opportunities for legacy supporters.

· Partner with legal and financial advisors to facilitate planned giving.

· Create dedicated marketing materials and implement bequest confirmer program.

Additional Initiatives

· Work closely with the CEO on relationship development with existing partners and board in fundraising.

· Collaborate with Community Giving Manager on integrated fundraising approaches and SME program development.

· Partner with Marketing and Donor Communications Specialist to create compelling donor communications and impact stories.

· Support development of comprehensive impact measurement framework covering nature, carbon, and community outcomes.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

· 5 or more years of experience in fundraising with demonstrated success in major gift solicitation and partnerships.

· Proven track record of securing six-figure gifts and/or corporate partnerships in timely manner.

· Experience developing and implementing major donor cultivation strategies with measurable outcomes.

· Strong relationship building and interpersonal skills with ability to engage C-suite executives and high-net-worth individuals.

· Excellent verbal and written communication abilities

· Understanding of the Australian philanthropic landscape, including Private Ancillary Funds and foundation sector

· Experience with legacy/planned giving programs and bequest development

· Proficiency with CRM systems and donor databases for pipeline management

· Strong analytical skills and attention to detail for impact measurement and reporting

· Ability to translate complex environmental concepts (carbon sequestration, biodiversity, ecosystem restoration) into compelling donor propositions

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience in environmental or conservation fundraising, particularly restoration projects

· Understanding of corporate sustainability, ESG frameworks, and nature-based solutions

· Experience with impact measurement and reporting frameworks

· Familiarity with ACCU schemes, Nature Repair Market, or similar environmental markets

· FIA certification or equivalent fundraising credentials

· Experience working with boards and high-profile stakeholders in fundraising capacity

· Understanding of Indigenous engagement principles and Traditional Owner partnerships

· Experience with blended finance or impact investment approaches

· Passion for environmental conservation and climate action with understanding of ecosystem restoration

· Strategic thinker with ability to see long-term potential in relationships while managing deadlines

· Entrepreneurial mindset and comfort with ambiguity in emerging markets

· Strong ethical standards and commitment to donor-centered fundraising with high integrity

· Collaborative team player who can work effectively across departments and with board members

· Self-motivated with ability to work independently and transparently

· Ability to work in a small team environment with multiple priorities and resource constraints

Working Conditions

· Full-time position (preferably) based in Melbourne (Sydney also an option).

· Regular travel required to meet with donors, visit inter-state project sites and occasionally head office in Perth (approximately 10%)

· Some evening and weekend work required for donor events

· Flexible working arrangements available

Reporting Relationship

This position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and works closely with the Board of Directors and Community Giving Manager on major fundraising initiatives.

Compensation and Investment

Salary: $110-140k, depending on experience.

Application Process

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to [email protected]. Please include "Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager" in the subject line. We will begin contacting suitable candidates on an ongoing basis, please apply as soon as you are ready.

Carbon Positive Australia is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce. Indigenous Australians are strongly encouraged to apply.