Director of Advancement

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Supervisor: Executive Director

Pay Grade: Grade 17, Step depending on experience and qualifications

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, 12 Month Employee

Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Director of Advancement is responsible for developing and leading EOAC's advancement efforts in three key areas: internal/external communication, public relations/marketing, and fundraising/development. This is a newly created position, and the Director will be instrumental in establishing and growing the department to support the organization's long-term goals. The successful candidate will have the vision and leadership abilities to build a cohesive team, enhance EOAC’s visibility, and secure financial resources through effective fundraising initiatives.

Job Duties:

• Strategic Communication and Public Relations:
  • Oversee all internal and external communications to ensure consistent, mission-aligned messaging across platforms.
  • Develop and implement communication strategies to increase public awareness of EOAC's programs and services.
  • Serve as the spokesperson for EOAC, engaging with media outlets, preparing press releases, and managing crisis communication.
• Marketing and Branding:
  • Lead the creation and execution of comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance EOAC's public image.
  • Ensure branding guidelines are followed across all communication materials.
  • Manage social media, website content, newsletters, and other promotional tools to increase engagement with EOAC’s stakeholders.
• Fundraising and Development:
  • Develop and execute fundraising strategies, including major gifts, annual campaigns, grants, and special events.
  • Cultivate relationships with donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and community partners to secure financial support.
  • Oversee donor stewardship and recognition efforts to maintain and grow EOAC's donor base.
• Department Leadership and Team Building:
  • Build, lead, and mentor a new team within the advancement department, which will include specialists in communication, marketing, and fundraising.
  • Establish short- and long-term goals for the advancement team in alignment with EOAC’s strategic plan.
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure cohesive organizational messaging and cross-functional initiatives.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Work closely with the Executive Director, leadership team, and board members to align advancement efforts with EOAC's overall strategy.
  • Lead the entire grant application process, including research, writing, and submission, while overseeing all phases of grant development from inception to final reporting
  • Collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders to support the successful planning, execution, and reporting of grants.
  • Engage with key community stakeholders, including local businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, to enhance collaboration and support.
  • Report regular updates to grant sponsors on the outcomes and impact of grant-funded initiatives, including detailed progress reports and key findings.
  • Attend board and committee meetings as needed, providing updates on advancement activities and performance metrics.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute events to support organizational objectives and engage key stakeholders.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong knowledge of fundraising techniques, public relations strategies, and nonprofit marketing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead a team, develop programs, and manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with donor management software and fundraising databases.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to cultivate relationships with donors, community partners, and team members.
• Strong public speaking skills to present and communicate key information to stakeholders, grant sponsors, and at relevant events.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment, effectively prioritize tasks, and consistently meet deadlines.
• Ability to travel routinely locally for community meetings and periodically overnight for training or industry events.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, communications, or marketing, with proven success in leading advancement efforts.
• Experience in building a department or leading significant organizational growth is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and managing donor relationships.

Personal Qualities:

• A collaborative leader who values teamwork and inclusivity.
• A strategic thinker with a passion for EOAC’s mission and values.
• Demonstrates integrity, with a commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Adaptable and visionary, capable of driving innovation and growth in a developing department.
• Motivated by the mission of EOAC to improve economic opportunities and advance community development.
• High ethical standards, ensuring confidentiality in the management of financial data, employee information, and other sensitive materials.

Economic Opportunities Advancement Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

At Economic Opportunities Advancement Corporation, we are committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We recognize that a wide range of skills and experiences can contribute to success in this role. Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply if you believe your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of this position and the mission of our organization. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for professional growth and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.