2026 Opportunity: Conservation Efforts as California’s Director of Principal Gifts

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental organization dedicated to protecting the lands and waters upon which all life depends. With over 1 million members and more than 400 scientists worldwide, TNC leverages science-based solutions to address critical environmental challenges. A unique opportunity has emerged for a visionary leader to join TNC as the Director of Principal Gifts, California, a role that combines strategic philanthropy, team leadership, and conservation impact.

This leadership position is ideal for professionals with a strong background in fundraising, donor relations, and strategic management. The Director will oversee principal gift initiatives in California, guiding ultra-high net worth donors and fostering long-term relationships that sustain TNC’s mission.

Role Overview

The Director of Principal Gifts reports to the California Chief Development Officer and leads a team of principal gift fundraisers and support staff. This role is central to TNC’s California Development strategy, focusing on:

• Identifying, engaging, and stewarding ultra-high net worth donors
• Building a collaborative, innovative, and high-performing team culture
• Driving strategic fundraising initiatives that align with TNC’s conservation goals

The position requires balancing leadership with hands-on fundraising, providing mentorship to staff while personally cultivating relationships with key donors. The Director will work closely with both California and Global Principal Gift teams to ensure TNC’s fundraising efforts are aligned, efficient, and impactful.

Key Responsibilities

The California Director of Principal Gifts is accountable for a broad range of strategic and operational tasks, including:

• Team Leadership: Recruit, retain, and develop principal gift fundraisers and support staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.
• Strategic Planning: Develop, pilot, and implement fundraising strategies, ensuring the program meets ambitious goals and KPIs.
• Donor Engagement: Build strong, authentic relationships with ultra-high net worth donors, foundations, and corporations to secure major gifts ranging from $100,000 to over $1 million.
• Portfolio Management: Manage a select group of donors and prospects, personally engaging key constituents while guiding staff in effective stewardship.
• Cross-Market Collaboration: Work with teams across TNC to maximize resources, share best practices, and develop comprehensive engagement opportunities.
• Performance Analysis: Monitor metrics, assess effectiveness, and adapt strategies to optimize donor engagement and fundraising results.

This combination of leadership, strategy, and relationship-building is essential for sustaining TNC’s conservation initiatives across California.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate for this position possesses extensive experience in principal gift fundraising and nonprofit management. Key qualifications include:

• Experience: Minimum 10 years of related experience, with at least 5 years at a senior level. Proven success in fundraising with major donors and ultra-high net worth individuals.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams while maintaining personal contributor responsibilities.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong ability to conceptualize and implement initiatives that align with organizational goals.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for donor engagement and team leadership.
• Global Perspective: Multi-lingual skills or cross-cultural experience is highly valued, as TNC operates in diverse communities globally.

Additionally, candidates must be committed to TNC’s mission and capable of fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment.

Compensation and Benefits

The Nature Conservancy offers a competitive compensation package for this leadership role. The salary range varies by location:

• Sacramento, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Diego: $171,000 – $308,000
• Los Angeles County and San Francisco Bay Area: $187,000 – $336,000

TNC provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health care and disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match
• Paid parental leave and time off
• Employee assistance and well-being programs

These benefits ensure staff can focus on advancing TNC’s mission while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Why Join The Nature Conservancy?

Since 1951, TNC has grown from a small nonprofit into one of the most respected environmental organizations globally. Employees have the opportunity to make a measurable impact on conservation through science-based initiatives and strategic philanthropy. The organization’s values prioritize respect for people, communities, and cultures, creating an inclusive and inspiring work environment.

The California Director of Principal Gifts role is not just a career opportunity—it is a chance to shape the future of conservation, influence philanthropy at the highest levels, and work alongside a team dedicated to protecting the planet for generations to come.

Apply Today

Individuals interested in this transformative leadership role are encouraged to apply promptly. TNC reviews applications on a rolling basis and seeks candidates who are ready to lead, inspire, and make a lasting difference in conservation.

By joining TNC as the Director of Principal Gifts, California, professionals can contribute to a world where people and nature thrive together, ensuring meaningful environmental impact for years to come.

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