Development Director

The Peninsula Youth Sailing Foundation (PYSF) is seeking a dynamic and passionate leader to serve as our Development Director. This key leadership position is responsible for driving the organization’s fundraising efforts and ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of PYSF’s mission to provide youth with the opportunity to engage in sailing and water-based education. The ideal candidate will be an experienced development professional with a passion for youth education, a deep understanding of nonprofit fundraising, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of young sailors in our community.

In this role, you will be responsible for securing funding for PYSF through a combination of individual giving, grants, partnerships and other strategies. You will lead and execute efforts in donor relations, grant writing, sponsorships, fundraising campaigns and events to support PYSF’s growing programming and outreach. You will also work closely with the Executive Director, board members, and staff to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders and expand our network of financial supporters. As a vital member of our leadership team, you will play a central role in shaping and executing the vision for the foundation’s financial health and growth.

Requirements:

• Proven success in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, recruiting and leading volunteers, and achieving fundraising goals.
• Experience securing major gifts from individuals, foundations, and the public sector.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Experience managing donor relations, annual fund and stewardship programs.
• Proficiency with fundraising software and donor databases (experience with Bloomerang preferred); strong computer skills in Windows, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), and Google Suite.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of brand marketing, advertising, and public relations.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to leverage data to support fundraising efforts.
• High emotional intelligence with the ability to connect with diverse individuals and build strong relationships.
• Strong listening, consensus-building, and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with donors, staff, board members, and external partners.
• High integrity, accountability, and intellectual curiosity, with a transparent approach to decision-making.
• Attention to detail while maintaining a strategic perspective.
• Team-oriented with a willingness to take initiative and welcome feedback.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice with cultural competence in diverse environments.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute an annual fundraising plan to meet fundraising goals. ● Grow and manage a portfolio of donors. Network and maintain regular correspondence with donors.
• Plan and execute the Annual Fund, Capital Campaigns and special events that enhance institutional and individual fundraising efforts while deepening donor engagement with PYSF’s mission.
• Prepare and present regular reports on progress towards fundraising goals.
• Manage grant writing and identification of new grant opportunities.
• Generate donor communications, newsletters, and annual report.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director in the creation of print, digital and social media content to current and prospective donors. Develop and distribute materials to effectively tell the PYSF story to diverse audiences.
• Educate and develop strategies for Board involvement in fundraising, including Major Gifts and Capital Campaigns.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Working Conditions & Schedule:

PYSF offers a hybrid work policy for this position, with a standard four-day work week. The schedule includes two days in the office and two days remote. However, flexibility is required, as the work schedule may vary during critical periods, special events, or when facing pressing deadlines. This role may require evening and weekend work, and there may be times when the schedule shifts to a five-day work week during peak business periods.

About PYSF

PYSF is a vibrant and growing non-profit organization focused on the education and enrichment of youth. From learn-to-sail to national travel teams, our classes stress safety and cultivate the values of character, community and competitiveness. Our program instills lifelong enjoyment and stewardship of our waterways, ocean space and world environment.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Annual Salary Range $120,000 to 140,000
• Medical and dental benefits
• Employer-paid Workers Compensation, Unemployment and State Disability Insurance benefits
• Time Off, starting at 10 days per year