DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

JOB SUMMARY: The Development Director will manage the organization’s fundraising strategy including annual giving, donor engagement efforts and grant writing and management.  The candidate must be able to work independently with minimal supervision. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Director will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising program encompassing major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, planned giving, donor stewardship, and special events. The Development Director will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Communications team to achieve fundraising goals aligned with the mission of the organization. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position after the introductory period, including health, dental, life, and short-term disability.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan that includes major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, planned giving, and special events
• Identify, cultivate, and steward major gift prospects and donors
• Plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising events to build donor engagement and raise funds
• Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to set fundraising goals and align efforts with strategic objectives
• Partner with the Communications team to develop donor marketing materials, digital fundraising campaigns, and recognition programs
• Create compelling messaging and appeals that resonate with donors across various channels
• Manage the full grant life cycle-- including research, proposal writing, submissions, reporting, and compliance--while collaborating closely with the programs department to align funding requests with organizational priorities and accurately communicate program needs and outcomes
• Monitor and analyze fundraising performance, donor engagement metrics, and revenue streams to inform strategic decisions
• Maintain donor records, manage gift processing, and ensure timely and accurate donor acknowledgment and stewardship
• Ensure integrity and accuracy of donor database systems; oversee use of fundraising platforms and reporting tools
• Engage Board members in fundraising activities and provide support for donor engagement initiatives
• Represent RIVERSPORT at community events and donor meetings
• Provide hands-on support and assistance at events, races, and fundraising events
• Must enthusiastically represent RIVERSPORT by displaying a positive attitude, high energy, and commitment to excellence throughout all aspects of the job
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director
   

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or related field (CFRE preferred)
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, including experience in major gifts, corporate giving, and event planning
• Demonstrated experience with donor databases and fundraising platforms (e.g. DonorPerfect)
• Proficiency in Excel and Word
• Strong leadership skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to craft compelling fundraising messages
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and data-driven decision-making ability
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders including donors, board members, and community partners
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Deep commitment to the mission and values of the RIVERSPORT Foundation
• High degree of integrity, credibility, and ethical conduct
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines
• Availability to occasionally attend evening or weekend events as required