Director of Development - The Richmonder

About The Richmonder

The Richmonder delivers non-partisan, high-quality news from Richmond, for Richmond. Founded by former Times-Dispatch editor Michael Phillips, this news organization has built momentum with a dedicated base of readers and supporters since September 2024. https://www.richmonder.org/about-us/

The Opportunity

The Richmonder seeks a full-time Development Director to join our rapidly growing team. This position is a key leadership role responsible for building and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy from the ground up, cultivating initial donor relationships, and managing all aspects of fundraising for our newly established organization.

The ideal candidate will bring solid fundraising experience - but more importantly, this person believes in the power of local news and how it can elevate the conversation in our community.

Position Overview

This full-time, exempt, salaried position reporting to the founding editor, Michael Phillips. This role oversees a Development Coordinator.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Fundraising Strategy

• Design and implement a comprehensive multi-year development strategy to increase annual revenue and grow our impact
• Identify and engage large donors across institutions, businesses, and individuals - building lasting relationships
• Actively seek out grant opportunities and develop strategic partnerships to diversify revenue streams

Develop Sponsor Relationships

• Secure sponsors for The Richmonder's two signature annual events
• Cultivate sponsors for the Richmonder newsletter
• Collaborate with the internal team to align sponsorship opportunities with event objectives, content, and marketing efforts
• Ensure newsletter sponsorships meet company standards

Conduct Outreach Initiatives

• Develop and execute targeted outreach campaigns, which may include direct mail, ensuring consistent messaging and follow-ups.
• Identify opportunities for converting subscribers into paid supporters through data-driven insights and tailored engagement strategies.

Manage Donor Operations

• Establish effective donor management practices, initially handling detailed tasks until administrative support is in place
• Maintain/Oversee the donor database, ensuring accurate record-keeping
• Issue receipts, acknowledgments, and year-end tax documents promptly

Education and Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising
• Proven track record of successful major gift solicitation and fundraising management
• Excellent communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a positive, constructive manner
• Genuine enthusiasm for community journalism and The Richmonder's mission
• Committed to supporting the editorial direction for news and story development

Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with occasional night or weekend work for events

Location: Must live in or relocate to the Richmond, Virginia, metro area. The position is considered hybrid with work required in the community, remotely and in the office depending on the needs of the organization.

Start Date: As soon as available

Compensation: $90,000 annual salary

Benefits:

• Group health and dental insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% employer match (once eligible)
• Vacation and paid holidays, including a break from December 25 through January 1