Director of Development
Climate Central is seeking an energetic, strategic frontline fundraiser to join its development team. Reporting to the Vice President for Development, the Director of Development will manage a portfolio of prospects and donors that have the capacity to make six- and seven-figure gifts to support the organization’s mission and goals. The portfolio will be a mix of foundations and individuals. This position offers an exceptional and entrepreneurial candidate the chance to make a difference by growing resources for an organization with a powerful track record.
Key Responsibilities
Effectively manage a portfolio of prospects and donors (both individuals and foundations) that have the capacity to make six- and seven-figure gifts.
Work closely with the Vice President for Development and other colleagues to create strategies for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors, including the design and execution of complex, high-level solicitations.
Make a minimum of ten meaningful donor contacts per month and an average of two major gift solicitations per month.
Bring an entrepreneurial approach to engaging new, promising prospects through research and leveraging the organization’s impressive board, donor, and staff network.
Align prospects’ interests and philanthropic goals with Climate Central’s current and emerging funding priorities.
Cultivate working relationships with Climate Central leadership and program staff to understand the needs and opportunities for the organization.
Partner with colleagues on a limited number of major donor events to attract new prospects and deepen engagement with current donors.
Develop compelling written proposals.
Develop and implement strategic stewardship plans. This will include both tailored stewardship for individuals as well as overseeing stewardship reporting for foundation funders.
Partner with finance colleagues and our development writer to ensure reporting requirements are met for all donors, notably foundation donors.
Leverage opportunities throughout the year to deepen donor engagement.
Key Qualifications
Minimum of ten years of development experience, with a track record of soliciting and closing six- and seven-figure gifts from foundations and/or individuals
Demonstrated ability to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward prospects and donors while effectively moving them through the gift cycle. Strong understanding of the Moves Management process and ability to think and work strategically.
Ability to strategically link Climate Central priorities and programs with donors’ interests and funding opportunities.
Experience with both highly engaged donors as well as making qualification calls.
Experience supporting volunteer leadership with their efforts in fundraising.
Excellent verbal communication skills.
Superior writing skills and high standards for presentation of written materials. Proven ability to write clearly and persuasively.
Experience utilizing a fundraising database.
A high level of initiative, organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
Skill in successfully managing multiple projects on tight deadlines and under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Unquestionable integrity and commitment to professional ethics, and the ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Ability to grasp and articulate complex programs in a way that meets the interests and passions of donors.
A creative, enthusiastic team member with a clear commitment to the mission of the organization.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills; experience interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Able to travel and undertake occasional evening and weekend work.
Experience with fundraising in the New York area is a plus.
Experience with government grant writing is a plus.
Some routine presence in the office is preferred; in-person attendance of periodic staff retreats is required.
Climate Central embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a workplace that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We recognize that diverse teams make the strongest teams, and we encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.
Climate Central has hired Development Guild to assist with this search. Please email your cover letter and resume in confidence to: ClimateCentral@developmentguild.com. For more information, please visit www.developmentguild.com.