Development Director

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

Position Title: Development Director
Department: Administration
Position Reports To: Managing Director
Type: Exempt
Positions Responsible For: Volunteer Development Assistants
Position Overview:
This individual is responsible for all aspects of major gifts (new contributions to $1,000+) and planned giving income in support of ISEA’s Great Lakes education and stewardship mission. The Development Director works closely with the management team, ISEA Board of Directors, and volunteers to cultivate, secure and steward gifts from community members.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manages and implements major gifts and planned giving fundraising in support of ISEA’s mission and strategic plan.
• Develops, with the management team, the annual fundraising plan and goals for Captain Circle, Schooner Society, family foundations and planned giving (not business and major foundation grants).
• Identifies, prioritizes, cultivates, solicits, thanks and recognizes new donors and prospects.
• Contacts and visits potential donors to cultivate, secure and steward major gifts and planned giving.
• Schedules donor meetings for Executive Director and Board members as appropriate.
• Works with the Executive Team and Board of Directors to develop policies and procedures regarding gift vehicles, gift acceptance, donor recognition, administration and stewardship of gifts.
• Meets annual goals for planned giving and major gifts.
• Manages ISEA’s fundraising database, including major donor and prospect profiles and giving history.

Fundraising Communication
• Prepares letters, emails, and other reports or materials needed for effective cultivation and solicitation of donors and family foundations.
• Collaborates with staff and consultants to ensure that publications and website include donor-focused content and recognition.
• Maintains confidentiality of donor information.

Leadership
• Serves as an ISEA ambassador to the community. Makes presentations to community groups about ISEA activities.
• Displays passion and optimism; inspires respect and trust, mobilizes others to fulfill the vision and mission.
• Exhibits sound and accurate judgment.
• Effectively sets and communicates organizational priorities and works within department budget.
• Develops creative approaches to achieve strategic plan as obstacles arise.

Industry Knowledge
• Understands and adheres to Association of Fundraising Standards, IRS rules and regulations, and other applicable state and federal regulations.
• Develops and maintains professional peer group relationships.
• Takes advantage of opportunities for further development education.

Secondary Responsibilities
Participates in special projects and other duties as assigned.


Skills/Prerequisites
Required
• 2+ years nonprofit fund raising experience and demonstrated success in meeting fundraising goals specifically with planned giving and major gift programs
• Proven motivational skills
• Ability to work effectively in establishing relationships with a wide range of individuals at various organizational levels, backgrounds and experiences
• Willing to meet with donors in their homes
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication
• 2+ years project management experience and proven experience in meeting deadlines
• Strong computer and presentation skills (experience with word processing, presentation packages, spreadsheets, Internet and databases)
• Experience in public speaking and in leading discussions with varying group sizes
• 2+ years public relations and media relations
• Strong organizational, follow-up and detail skills
• Strong self-starter and seasoned manager

Education
Required: Bachelor’s Degree – Public Relations/Marketing/Non Profit Management/Fundraising
Preferred: Master’s Degree – Public Relations/Marketing/Non Profit Management/Fundraising
Licenses and Certification: Required: None
Preferred: CERE (Certified Fund Raising Executive)

To apply, send, by e-mail only, a cover letter and resume to Thomas M. Kelly, Executive Director at tkelly@schoolship.org