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The Neuro was founded in 1934 out of the vision of Dr. Wilder Penfield, who imagined a novel approach to scientific research: a continuous research corridor from the patient's bedside to the scientist's lab bench, integrating the finest patient care with the most advanced neuroscience of the day.
Since then, The Neuro has become a world leader in brain research and advanced patient care. It is the largest specialized neuroscience research and clinical care centre in Quebec and Canada, and one of the largest in the world. The seamless integration of research, patient care, and the training of the world’s top minds make The Neuro positioned to have significant impact on the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders.
Position Summary:
Under the general direction of the Managing Director Development of the Neuro, the incumbent will develop, plan and implement strategies for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, closing and stewarding Major Gifts of at least $100K for The Neuro, with the goal of raising funds for clinical and research needs, ultimately making an impact for patients with neurological diseases. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and managing a portfolio of 100 – 150 prospects and will develop and implement a fundraising plan for major gift prospects including the qualification, cultivation and solicitation of individuals capable of contributing major gifts of $100,000 or more to Neuro priorities. The incumbent also plays an active role in contributing fundraising knowledge and strategy at a senior level and providing guidance and support to volunteers.
Primary Responsibilities:
Manage a prospect portfolio (approx. 100 – 150) and carry out significant steps (moves) in accordance with a strategy designed to result in increased philanthropic support for The Neuro and McGill University.
Qualify, cultivate and solicit prospects capable of contributing major gifts of $100,000 or more to Neuro priorities.
Through personal visits, effectively communicate The Neuro’s clinical and research priorities to prospects and donors. Qualify individuals to determine capacity, inclination and interests in providing special and major gift support to The Neuro. Evaluate and recommend appropriate next steps for newly qualified potential donors and current donors.
Develop major gift fundraising strategies and timetables, to secure gifts of $100,000 or more from top prospects in the SDO portfolio.
Work closely with internal stakeholders at The Neuro to understand and create comprehensive fundraising strategies; meet with PI’s and clinicians to fully understand their needs and create donor proposals.
Guide and support volunteers in fundraising practices, and in developing strategies in order to successfully engage a maximum number of donors.
Identify, introduce and engage new volunteers with The Neuro.
Participate in Prospect Management System; file timely and appropriate contact reports, recording of proposals, etc.
Work closely with The Neuro’s Communication team to ensure consistent brand messaging and create awareness for The Neuro.
Work closely with the supervisor to ensure that messages and communications (e.g., proposals) are consistent with The Neuro’s mission.
Undertake special projects.
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
A minimum of 5 to 8 years of direct fundraising experience with a proven track record of success in the cultivation, solicitation, and closing of major gifts ($100k+) preferably in an academic/higher education, healthcare, or non-profit organization. Knowledge and understanding of the Neuro and University and its priorities is a strong asset. Knowledge of planned giving and planned giving vehicles. An extremely results-driven, self-starter, with the ability to analyze successes and failures to take corrective action. Demonstrated ability to build constructive and effective relationships. Professional attitude, diplomacy, and ability to collaborate with others to reach objectives in a team environment. Client-focused, with demonstrated skills in listening, planning, organizing, priority setting, analyzing and problem solving. Ability to quickly establish credibility and gain the respect of both internal and external partners; achieves a high level of trust in relationships. Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and to effectively manage multiple projects within tightly prescribed timetables. Ability to work highly autonomously and manage own schedule. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability to work in a PC environment, using MS Office, and client-server database software. Bilingual in French and English.
Additional Information
On occasion, this position requires work in the evenings and/or weekends and travel may be required.
Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # 4 on a scale of 0-4.
For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.
As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:
Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
Competitive vacation policy
Two (2) personal days
Two (2) floating holidays
Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
Paid time off over the December holiday period
Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Bachelor's Degree 5 Years Related Experience /
(MPEX Grade 07) $90,170.00 - $112,710.00 - $135,250.00
Job Profile:
MPEX-COM3C - Development & Alumni Relations - Senior Professional/Manager
33.75 (Full time)
Managing Director Development
Position End Date (If applicable):
2025-08-01
McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.
