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Development Director

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Director is responsible for the ongoing development and implementation of comprehensive fund development strategies for Square Root Academy.  The position oversees all aspects of fundraising and strategic partnerships with corporations, organizations and individual donors in the community. The position is one of the public faces of Square Root Academy and is responsible for not only high level speaking engagements, but also television, radio and print media interviews. The position is responsible for overseeing the preparation of grants, appeal letters and promotional materials.

Compensation: $40K - $50K salary (DOE)

Commitment: 35-40 Hrs/Week

Travel: Some

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Management

  • Supervise Development Department which includes managing 2-5 employees.  

Fund Development:

  • Perform fundraising activities to support the mission of Square Root Academy

  • Must raise 4 times annual salary

  • Collaborate with the Board of Directors and Executive Director to create a Fund Development Plan which increases revenues to support the strategic direction of the organization.

  • Nurture a Culture of Philanthropy throughout the agency, from the staff to the Board of Directors.

  • Monitor and evaluate all fundraising activities to ensure that fundraising goals are being achieved.

  • Work with grant writing team to identify and pursue grants that meet program and organizational needs of Square Root Academy. Provide grant maintenance and reporting. Secure new grant funding each fiscal year.

  • Oversee the planning and execution of special fundraising events.

  • Perform analysis of donor activity and evaluate giving patterns and solicitation outcomes.

  • Monitor expenses and analyze budget reports on fund development and recommend changes as necessary

Promote the Organization:

  • Educate the community (donors, volunteers and interested parties) about the challenges facing youth from underserved populations, helping to dismantle negative stereotypes.

  • Represent Square Root Academy in the community and through media opportunities, including TV, radio and print.

  • Lead the effort in “branding” the organization and creating a consistent message that supports the mission of Square Root Academy.

  • Build relationships with community stakeholders to advance the mission and fundraising goals of Square Root Academy

  • Represent Square Root Academy at public events, as requested.

Records and Reports:

  • Ensure accuracy of all donor-related information; submit reports to Executive Director and others as requested.

  • Manage a donor mailing list and database which respects the privacy and confidentiality of donor information.

  • Monitor progress of all fundraising and resource development efforts and outcomes; submit regular reports to Executive Director and others as requested.

  • Compile and report statistical information in compliance with grant funding requirements.

  • Ensure each donors recognition of contribution via letter, phone call or other appropriate means

Marketing: 

  • Oversee organizational wide marketing efforts which include Square Root Academy social media presence

  • Assist in creating monthly newsletter and website maintenance  

  • Attend and participate in community events to create regional brand awareness

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Primary Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree in related field, and minimum three-to-five years of experience in fund development. Experience writing successful grant proposals, face-to-face solicitations and planning and executing large fundraising events is required. The position requires computer literacy, including knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications and database programs. Excellent verbal and written communications skills (including strong public speaking skills) are required. Attention to detail, confidentiality and professionalism are key qualifications inherent to this position.

Desired Personal Qualities:

  • The ideal candidate will have a visionary spirit, a true passion for working with people, and a desire to improve the educational outcomes for youth from underserved backgrounds. Additional qualities include creativity and possessing excellent organizational, leadership and planning skills. The ability to cultivate effective working relationships with donors, community partners, volunteers and colleagues is essential. Demonstrated professional integrity, ethics and respect of confidential donor-related information are paramount. Strong interpersonal skills are a must.

** Important Note: Fingerprinting is required for employment, with expenses covered by employer.

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