Fund Development & Communications Manager

The Fund Development + Communications Manager plays a crucial role at SVCN. This role leads our fund development efforts, oversees the planning and executing of our largest annual event, Be Our Guest, and shapes and executes a comprehensive communication strategy for our organization, ensuring effective messaging that resonates with our diverse audience. This role is vital in driving impactful initiatives that support local nonprofits in creating thriving and equitable communities.

SVCN has two similar job descriptions posted. Please refer to the Specialist job description and apply for the position that aligns with your experience and background. You can find both job announcements on our website at: www.svcn.org/jobs-internships

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking a strategic, detail-oriented leader passionate about nonprofit development and communications with a strong commitment to racial justice and equity. You excel in a collaborative environment, are solutions-oriented, and can effectively manage multiple priorities. Your ability to build rapport, maintain a positive attitude, and bring creativity to your work will be key to your success in this role.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to a small yet influential organization. The position is based in San José, California. SVCN’s team works in a hybrid capacity, working in the office at the Sobrato Nonprofit Center and from home.

Examples of Duties

Fund Development

• Lead the planning and execution of the Be Our Guest annual event to maximize fundraising potential.
• Develop and maintain a sponsorship pipeline for all SVCN events, including identifying and prospecting potential sponsors.
• Develop and write creative and persuasive fundraising pieces that communicate the value, mission, and impact of SVCN.
• Support the CEO in grant writing, soliciting new funding opportunities, and maintaining existing contracts and grants.
• Build meaningful relationships with community partners, sponsors, and other stakeholders.

Communications & Marketing

• Create and implement a comprehensive communication roadmap aligned with SVCN's mission and goals.
• Manage various communication channels, including newsletters, and social media platforms.
• Manage SVCN’s website, content, and additional website integrations and utilities with assistance from a technical contractor.
• Produce engaging content that effectively communicates SVCN’s values and initiatives.
• Utilize analytics to measure the effectiveness of fundraising and communication strategies, adapting approaches based on insights gained.
• Collaborate with team members to foster a cohesive brand presence and enhance the organization’s visibility within the community.
• Supports SVCN programs with content development (brochures, flyers, reports, etc.) and visual and graphic design to ensure brand consistency and effective messaging.
• Coordinate and maintain an active social media presence (i.e., Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.), promoting advocacy actions, special monthly themes, and internal and external events, and making targeted public awareness posts.
• Coordinate outreach campaigns aimed at raising awareness and increasing engagement among stakeholders.

General Duties

• Provide reporting and work with the SVCN Board of Directors.
• Stay current with nonprofit trends and best practices in fund development and communications to drive continuous improvement.
• Support organization-wide planning, program, policy, and advocacy activities as needed.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school or commensurate experience in a nonprofit development or communications role.
• At least 4-6 years of direct experience in development, communications, media relations, fundraising, event management, or other nonprofit-related activities.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of current trends in and applications of digital media/social media, graphic design, and virtual platforms.
• Demonstrated record of successfully soliciting donations from the business community is a plus.
• Leadership & Project Management: Proven experience in staff and volunteer supervision, grant management, and project management, with strong organizational skills.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, comfortable and effective in public speaking, and capable of building and maintaining positive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to DEI: Strong commitment to advancing racial justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.
• Problem-Solving & Initiative: Exceptional problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to take initiative, work independently, and follow through on tasks.
• Interpersonal Skills & Diplomacy: Excellent interpersonal and diplomacy skills, thriving in collaborative environments and independent work.
• Adaptability & Multitasking: Ability to juggle multiple priorities with a positive, flexible, and solution-oriented attitude, taking on different roles as needed.
• Comfort using a variety of software platforms (including Microsoft Office Suite, Box, G Suite, Slack, Trello, Salesforce, Outlook, Zoom, RegFox, MailChimp, Canva, Webflow, and the flexibility and ability to learn new platforms).
• Reliable transportation (and applicable licensure and automobile insurance as required by California law).
• Local residency or willingness to relocate by start date.

Compensation and Benefits

1. This is a full-time, exempt, at-will position.
2. The annual salary range for this position is between $70,000 - $85,000 and is ultimately determined based on the candidate's experience.
3. 100% coverage of Kaiser Health Benefits for employees and dependents or a $250 monthly stipend in lieu of insurance.
4. 403(b) retirement plan. In FY25, staff with over one year of employment are offered a 3% match to their contributions.
5. Free parking.
6. $1,000 professional development stipend.
7. Cell phone stipend.
8. 38-hour work week, with flexibility.
9. Generous holiday policy of 17 paid holidays, plus a winter closure.
10. Regular organization-paid lunches and other fun perks.
11. A workplace where you feel welcome, valued, and inspired.

All employees must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or individuals who are legally authorized to work full-time without restriction for any U.S. employer and who possess lawful evidence of employment authorization. Note: Individuals seeking consideration under the “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival” (DACA) policy must have a valid Employment Authorization Document at the time of application.

Application process

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, please submit the following to the link below:

• Letter of interest
• Resumé
• Note: References and a writing and/or design sample may be requested in the interview process

ABOUT SVCN

Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN) advances the role, voice, and capacity of the nonprofit community in Santa Clara County, driving positive social change and fostering equitable, vibrant, and thriving communities. SVCN is committed to being a change agent and a model of possibility by centering racial justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do, both internally and externally. A key strategic priority is to support the nonprofit ecosystem by serving as a trusted source and hub of information, resources, and connections for Silicon Valley nonprofits, facilitating collaboration and collective impact. We also leverage our power, position, and access to partner with, amplify, and support the community, influencing decision-makers to address the biggest challenges facing nonprofits and the communities they serve.

SVCN is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to the diversity of our staff. Applicants are invited to apply regardless of sex, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, race, age, ethnicity, national origin, disability, marital or veteran status, medical condition, or religion. Individuals who need assistance or accommodation due to a disability may contact us at HR@svcn.org.