Development Director

Position Summary:

The Director of Development will take the lead role as a member of the leadership team to grow and build a vibrant fundraising program, with special emphasis on expanding a major/leadership gift program and building a corporate engagement strategy. The Director of Development will be a high-energy individual with a passion for the mission of Collegiate Directions. This individual will work closely with the president and CEO, program leaders, communication manager, grant writer, and board of directors to shape and execute the long-term plan for revenue growth. A successful candidate will implement a comprehensive, annual development plan and will establish goals to support development and program operations. The Director of Development will be charged with growing the donor base by working strategically on donor and prospect engagement activities. A successful candidate will be able to manage and drive the leadership team and all key stakeholders to take a more active role in advancing all aspects of the fundraising efforts of CDI.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a key adviser to the president and CEO and the board of directors on development strategy and execution.
• Review and refine CDI’s development plan annually, with a focus on stewarding the existing donor base and cultivating new donors throughthe development of a corporate engagement and major gifts program. Drive and assist the leadership team in determining the long-term vision and strategy for the CDI development operation.
• Expand and diversify the prospect pool at all levels of giving and manage strategies around implementing these plans; manage portfolio of top prospects and donors and guide this work for other leadership team members and board.
• Lead the execution of the annual benefit and other special events to raise funds and advance the stature and visibility of CDI.
• Coordinate and strengthen the annual giving campaign.
• Review, adjust, and implement the best internal systems to build a successful development operation.
• Initiate the establishment of a ScholarAlumni giving program.
• Support and guide the development of CDI’s consulting arm and make connections with interested donors.
• Provide oversight of and collaborate with CDI’s grant writer to develop proposals for individual donors, corporations, government, and foundations.
• Become engaged in the intellectual and programmatic life of CDI and explore and design opportunities for support to meet the growing needs of the organization.
• Serve as an ambassador for the organization and help drive excellent communications to all parties affiliated with CDI.
• Foster an environment that incorporates a creative, entrepreneurial spirit and also builds a sophisticated system of practices and procedures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required with a minimum of five years of development experience.
• Excellent fundraising strategy development and execution capability in addition to strong written and oral communication skills.
• Superior attention to detail and experience in crafting formal proposals and grant writing.
• Proficiency in Excel, Word and fundraising database software; familiarity with Salesforce preferred and a solid knowledge base of current research tools and methodology.
• Knowledge of either the K-12 or higher education landscapes are a plus.
• Occasional off-hour travel for events and meetings.