Director of Business Development

Job Description:

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
Our client in Norwalk, CT, is seeking a Director of Advancement to join their team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the Vice President, Philanthropy, and Engagement to aggressively plan, lead, and direct the organization through the development and implementation of comprehensive fundraising efforts to meet the client's operating, exhibition, education, conservation, capital, and endowment needs for the present and the long-term future.
  
• Work with the Vice President, Philanthropy and Engagement, and President to motivate and strengthen the Board of Trustees in its development role; expand, manage, and coordinate the Board and other volunteers` involvement in fundraising activities; and take an active role in serving and supporting the Board and several Board committees.
  
• Work with the Vice President, Philanthropy and Engagement, the President, and the Board to cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, with a focus on major gifts. Further, create and manage a large-scale cultivation effort to develop a pipeline of new donors for the fulfillment of funding goals while ensuring appropriate recognition of donors of all levels.
  
• Work closely with staff (particularly the Senior Manager of Events and Community Engagement), trustees, and other volunteers to maximize the effectiveness of the organization`s special events and other activities to help attract, develop, and retain donors. Create new events for this purpose.
  
• Supervise and oversee the research and preparation of foundation, corporate, and government grant proposals, and oversee grant administration and reporting.
  
• Creatively develop and implement strategies for constituency development and new markets for fundraising initiatives in order to increase donor participation with the client programs, including through corporate gift giving, cause marketing, online giving, capital campaigns, planned giving, annual giving, major gifts, grant acquisitions, and special events.
  
• Work to foster ongoing, collegial relations among the development department and other departments of the organization. Serve as a member of the senior management team that guides strategic decision-making.
  
• Build, train, and supervise an effective development team and support staff.
  
• Team with other senior leaders within the Philanthropy and Engagement team to enhance the client's public image and positioning, foster positive external relations, build long-term strategic alliances, and play an active public role as a spokesperson and representative of the organization.
  
• In conjunction with the Vice President of Philanthropy and Engagement and the senior management team, prepare and manage the department`s financial reports and budget; monitor the development budget and control expenses; and oversee the administration of the development department, its procedures, and policies.
  
• Working with senior management, create and implement an operational plan for future Capital Campaigns, including cultivation events, printed materials, gift announcements, and correspondence.
  
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• At least 7-10 years of progressively responsible development experience.
  
• Evidence of a comprehensive understanding of fundraising strategies and methods, including the pros and cons of each.
  
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent; Master's degree preferred.
  
• A proven track record in the management of successful development programs and fundraising initiatives, including capital campaigns.
  
• Seasoned experience in the solicitation, cultivation, and stewardship of individual, corporate, and foundation donors, with an emphasis on high-net-worth individuals and public funding.
  
• Familiarity with USG processes, including proposal and budget development
  
• Experience and comfort using relevant donor management software as well as MS Office 365.
  
  Knowledge and Skills
  
• Commitment to the client's mission, with an appreciation for the important role that the client plays in conservation, education, and the life of a vibrant community.
  
• Commitment to equity and social justice, and strong alignment with our organizational values.
  
• An attitude of creativity, innovation, confidence, and entrepreneurship, with an ability to inspire and motivate both audiences and staff.
  
• Strong leadership ability with proven management skills in leading and developing staff and working within a highly motivated team.
  
• Strong interpersonal skills.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Continuous improvement / problem-solving mindset and way of working
  
• Strong attention to detail
  
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.