Description

Position Overview
The Director of Development (DoD) leads the Conservancy’s efforts to generate private support, designing and managing all fundraising strategies to advance the organization’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all fundraising revenue targets, including membership, major giving, and fundraising events.
• Develops creative strategies to overcome challenges.
• Implement and maintain the Strategic Development Plan.
• Ensure accurate fundraising forecasts and steady growth through transparent monthly reporting.
• Share fundraising progress updates in meetings with the Leadership Team, staff, Board of Directors, and committees as required.
• Work with the CEO and Board to identify, prioritize, and cultivate donors, with an emphasis on major gifts over $10,000.
• Collaborate with leadership to create actionable strategies for major giving prospects.
• Lead prospect tracking meetings to review donor cultivation and next steps.
• Support the CEO and Board in engaging prospects and donors, arranging meetings, tours, and preparing reports, promotional materials, proposals, and presentations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with major individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Expand the planned giving program, focusing on “blended gifts” that combine current and planned contributions.
• Support Development Managers in growing annual fundraising, grant programs, and sponsorships.
• Train and encourage board committee members to reach revenue goals, providing the necessary administrative support.
• Participate in regular Leadership Team meetings to stay informed, align messaging, optimize resources, and contribute to long-term planning.

Personnel Management

• Lead the Development team, including recruiting, onboarding, and professional growth.
• Set annual goals for direct reports and monitor performance through clear metrics.
   

Fund Development

• Ensure the development of compelling electronic and print materials for fundraising priorities.
• Work with staff to review partnerships and pursue joint funding opportunities.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 3 years as a non-profit Development Director, or 5 years as a senior development manager with a $1 million+ portfolio.
• Strong multitasking, organizational, and prioritization skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Positive attitude under pressure.
• Experience working with a broad range of individuals including partners, volunteers, staff, board members, and donors.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Ability to pass a standard background check.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with Virtuous or similar CRM systems.
• Proven record of collaborating with volunteers.
• Appreciation of the natural world.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily virtual or in an office setting, with some duties performed offsite or outdoors.
• Local travel may be required for site visits, conferences, or partner meetings, with mileage reimbursed according to federal rates.
• All staff members are expected to foster a culture of respect, teamwork, and collaboration.
• Adaptability, creativity, and passion for the environment and the Conservancy are essential.