Development Director

Deceleration is a nonprofit online journal producing original news and analysis that responds to our shared ecological, political, and cultural crises. We write at the intersection of environment and justice—journalistically, academically, and creatively—with emphasis on our home communities and bioregion (the watersheds of San Antonio, South Texas, and the Gulf South, broadly). Deceleration is dedicated to cultivating radical imagination that goes to the roots of climate disturbance in historical systems of oppression while expanding and deepening the sorts of solutions we put into practice for protecting and creating the commons. Read more about us here.

Deceleration is currently helmed by two editorial staff and is looking to take on a much needed Development Director. In partnership with the Executive and Managing Editors, the Development Director would spearhead fundraising efforts and diversify revenues as Deceleration continues to grow. As a new position within the organization, the Development Director would have the opportunity to build the development role and strategy.

Responsibilities include:

Fundraising Strategy

• With editorial staff and community advisors, develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan to meet the organization’s annual revenue goals
• Conduct preliminary research on prospective funders
• Secure financial support from individuals, foundations, ad sponsors, and government agencies
• Complete interim and annual reports to funders
• Plan and execute special events and end of year campaigns that build reader support
• Track fundraising metrics and create reports as needed

Donor Relations

• Develop effective donor communications and marketing materials for use by editorial staff
• Manage the implementation of Donorbox and Patreon
• Process donations and prepare/send thank you letters and end of year communications
• Develop and maintain ongoing relationships with individual and regular donors

Required Qualifications:

• BA in Nonprofit Administration or related field (required), MA (a plus)
• 5+ years experience in development, with proven track record in grant writing, reader/individual donor campaigns, sponsorship, digital fundraising, and special events
• Demonstrated excellence in written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write compelling donor communications and marketing materials.
• Demonstrated excellence in organizational and managerial skills, with experience managing other fundraising professionals and training editorial staff in best fundraising practices
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with editorial staff, community advisors, and a diverse community of readers
• Knowledge of Donorbox, Patreon, and other fundraising software and online platforms
• Familiarity with media landscape/organizations
• Familiarity with and commitment to grassroots environmental/social justice movement work

This is a full-time, salaried position with a stipend for health insurance premiums or health care expenses. The ideal applicant would be based in San Antonio or South Texas and able to travel for in-person meetings, although remote work schedule outside of meetings is negotiable. We care strongly about diversity and justice and strongly encourage candidates from all historically marginalized/oppressed communities to apply.