Description

WHO WE ARE

At Braille Institute, we are driven by a shared purpose: to serve the blind and low vision community. We come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, finding fulfillment in the impact we create. We believe in fostering a culture that is collaborative, inclusive, and flexible.

We understand the importance of work-life balance, valuing both personal and professional fulfillment. Here, you'll find an environment that supports your well-being while providing opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive alongside colleagues who are sighted and visually impaired.

OVERVIEW:

Braille Institute’s Development team raises funds that work to eliminate barriers to a fulfilling life caused by low vision or complete sight loss. The fundraising team is comprised of 16 members who work closely on annual giving, mid-level giving, major gifts, planned gifts, capital projects, and campaigns. Founded in 1919, Braille Institute of America (BIA) is one of the oldest and most comprehensive providers of free services for people who are blind or visually impaired. BIA has an annual operating budget of approximately $30 million and is funded almost entirely through private donations. 

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Job Summary:  The Director of Development – Orange County serves as the organization’s lead fundraiser and development representative for the Orange County region (with potential support for Riverside County). This role manages a strategic portfolio of major gift pros strategy and regional implementation of the organization’s major gifts strategy, and plays a central role in advancing the Together for Impact culture across the region.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Director of Development manages a strategic portfolio of major gift prospects in Orange County (and, as needed, Riverside) and is responsible for cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of making gifts between $10,000 and $100,000, building a robust regional pipeline, and contributing to a team revenue goal of $5M+. This position collaborates closely with the Senior Director of Development, regional leadership, the Director of Planned Giving, the San Diego Gift Officer, and crossdepartmental partners to advance regional fundraising priorities. The Director maintains high standards of data integrity, oversees regional dashboards and forecasting, and ensures accurate documentation of donor interactions. As a senior representative of the organization, the Director builds community partnerships, participates in regional events, and promotes the organization’s mission to donors, prospects, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

As a director, this role must maintain knowledge of Braille Institute of A programs and services for use in meetings and solicitations. The role must also attend donor, volunteer, student and community events to promote the organization and solicit gifts, as appropriate.

Perform other duties as assigned. As the organization continues to evolve, duties or tasks may change without impacting the overall Job Description.

Supervisory Responsibilities:  None

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job duties.

Knowledge and Education:  A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is desired.  Advanced knowledge of fundraising techniques, moves management, communication strategies, including writing/editing.  

Skills and Abilities:  Position requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, strategic thinking, and strong interpersonal skills.  Must have proven ability to establish and maintain donor relationships and secure funds from donors.

Experience:    Five years minimum in a fundraising position or equivalent experience

Certifications/licenses:   Valid drivers license is preferred

Work Environment: Position works in a standard office environment which may be remote. Travel in the Southern California area is required.

Physical Requirements:   Position operates standard office equipment.