American Ancestors is a national leader in family history, heritage, and culture, connecting people to their personal and collective past through scholarship, collections, and community. As the global brand of the New England Historic Genealogical Society, the organization carries forward a legacy dating back to 1845 while continuing to innovate in how history is researched, preserved, and shared. With more than 500,000 members and subscribers and millions of online users, American Ancestors offers one of the most comprehensive genealogical resources in the world, including billions of digitized records and expansive research collections.
The organization blends tradition with forward-looking initiatives, such as the 10 Million Names Project, which seeks to recover and share the names of enslaved individuals in pre- and post-colonial America. Through its Boston-based headquarters and global digital presence, American Ancestors serves as both a repository of knowledge and a vibrant community for those seeking deeper understanding of identity, lineage, and history. Its work is rooted in education, access, and connection, positioning the organization at the intersection of scholarship, public engagement, and cultural preservation.
The Opportunity
American Ancestors is seeking a Major Gifts Officer to join its Advancement team at a pivotal moment of growth and momentum.
Reporting to the Chief Advancement Officer, this role will manage portfolios of more than 120 prospects and play a central role in building philanthropic support for the organization’s ambitious priorities. The Major Gifts Officer will lead the full donor lifecycle, from identification and cultivation to solicitation and stewardship, employing a disciplined, metrics-driven approach to moves management.
This is a highly relational role, requiring frequent donor engagement through in-person visits, events, and strategic communications. The Major Gifts Officer will collaborate closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to develop compelling giving opportunities that align donor interests with institutional priorities. With a focus on both annual and campaign giving, including complex and planned gifts, this position offers the opportunity to shape meaningful philanthropic partnerships that advance a mission centered on connection and discovery.
Ideal candidates will bring experience securing six-figure gifts, strong strategic instincts, and a passion for mission-driven fundraising.
The salary for this position is up to $125,000.
