Position Summary
Responsible for implementing marketing and development strategies that will increase the organization’s profile in the community and grow sustainable philanthropic support for its mission services. Lead a variety of targeted and coordinated activities including use of social and other media, major and planned giving, corporate and foundation giving, and donor stewardship.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Research donor prospects and strategically grow the prospective donor base through participation and networking in the community.
- Solicit major gifts and event sponsorships.
- Oversee the research, writing, and submission of grant proposals and ensure donors receive timely and informative reporting.
- Ensure prompt and accurate gift processing, gift acknowledgment, and donor recognition.
- Develop and implement the organization’s social media plan and ensure effective ongoing use of social media marketing strategies.
- Develop strong media relations and prepare news releases in a timely manner when indicated.
- Lead teams of volunteers for event coordination and other development activities. Some evening and weekend work may be required from time to time. Flex time is available.
- Educate prospective and existing donors about appropriate planned giving options.
- Conduct agency tours and make presentations to various community groups.
- Prepare annual department budget, evaluate the return on investment for various marketing activities.
- Assist board members and volunteers as needed in the planning of special events.
- Provide oversight and coordination of the agency’s volunteer program for individual, group and corporate volunteers.
- In cooperation with other relevant staff, develop effective collateral materials to promote mission services and increase enrollment.
- Model the organizational values of customer focus, continuous improvement, integrity, transparency, compassion, and accountability.
- Develop and maintain effective relationships with all stakeholders, focusing on exceeding customer expectations of the services provided.
- Lead and/or participate in meetings, committees and agency events to promote continuous improvement and Abilities First community image.
- Attend seminars and conferences for professional growth and present this information when appropriate.
- Publish regular outreach documents including but not limited to the Annual Report, newsletters, and update/outreach documents.
- Set and achieve clear goals in collaboration with the Executive Director. Maintain a self‑directed, proactive, and goal‑oriented mindset toward the role, not relying solely on direction or supervision.
- Perform all other duties deemed necessary by the Executive Director.
Job Requirements
- Minimum of 5 years relevant experience and a proven track record of achieving year‑over‑year increases in fund development revenue.
- Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral).
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher.
- Knowledge of CRM software is mandatory.
- CFRE certification preferred.
- Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and reliable transportation.
- Strong written and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Competencies
- Attentive to detail and excellent problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
- Service oriented and client‑focused.
- Sound working knowledge of licensing guidelines and billing systems.
- Empathetic, trustworthy, and able to establish cooperative relationships with other professionals.
- Ability to motivate and inspire employees.
- Highly diplomatic, respectful, and flexible with work schedules.
- Comfortable working collaboratively as well as independently.