Director of Fundraising and Partnerships

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director of Fundraising will carry out the following specific tasks and responsibilities: 

Fundraising Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes individual giving, major gifts, annual campaigns, corporate sponsorships, and planned giving.
• Set and achieve annual fundraising targets, ensuring a diversified and sustainable revenue stream.
• Lead all aspects of donor engagement, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations.
• Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, including galas, donor recognition events, and community fundraisers.

Partnership Development

• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with corporations, foundations, community organizations, and government entities that align with the organization’s mission.
• Develop and manage corporate sponsorship programs that offer mutual benefits for both the organization and partners, including event sponsorships, program funding, and in-kind support.
• Create co-branded initiatives and collaborative projects that amplify the organization’s visibility and impact.
• Maintain long-term, meaningful partnerships through regular communication and recognition.

Donor and Partner Relations

• Build and maintain strong, personal relationships with major donors, ensuring ongoing engagement and stewardship.
• Develop and implement a donor cultivation plan, including personalized communication, recognition, and engagement opportunities.
• Manage the grant writing process, including researching opportunities, preparing proposals, and ensuring compliance with grant reporting requirements.
• Leverage relationships with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders to identify new fundraising and partnership opportunities.

Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Lead and mentor the small fundraising team.
• Collaborate with the Communications team to create compelling fundraising materials and campaigns that engage donors and partners.
• Work closely with the Finance team to ensure accurate tracking of fundraising income, reporting, and alignment with organizational budgets.

Data and Reporting

• Oversee the management of donor and partner data using a CRM system, ensuring accurate records of interactions, contributions, and engagement.
• Track and analyze fundraising performance metrics, adjusting strategies based on data-driven insights.
• Prepare regular reports for Executive Leadership and the EJS Center Board on fundraising progress, partnership growth, and key challenges.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, or a related field required. Advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CFRE) in fundraising or nonprofit management a plus.
• 5-7 years of experience in fundraising, development, and/or partnerships, with a proven track record of achieving revenue goals.
• Demonstrated success in securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grant funding.
• Strong partnership development skills, with the ability to identify and cultivate mutually beneficial relationships with corporations, foundations, and other organizations.
• Experience planning and executing large-scale fundraising events.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including major donors, corporate executives, foundation officers, and board members.
• Proficiency in fundraising CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, Donor Perfect) and understanding of how to leverage data for fundraising efforts.
• Passionate about the organization’s mission and able to inspire others to support the cause.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for the Director of Fundraising and Partnerships are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested applicants are required to submit:

(1) a cover letter highlighting why you should be considered

(2) a copy of your CV detailing your professional and educational experience

(3) list of three references