Director of Development (Fundraising)

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, sustainable fundraising program that aligns with the organization's mission and financial goals.
• Lead the creation and execution of annual fundraising efforts resulting in increased revenue and number of donors.
• Build and maintain relationships with individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Oversee the identification, solicitation, and stewardship of donors at all levels.
• Support Board members in their resource development work.
• Supervise and mentor a small team of fundraising professionals.
• Provide guidance, training, and support to team members while fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Research, write, and submit corporate and foundation proposals.
• Plan and execute fundraising events, including donor receptions, annual galas, and other special initiatives.
• Oversee the management of donor data and ensure the accurate tracking of donations, pledges, and donor communications.
• Prepare reports for the Executive Director and Board of Directors on fundraising progress and outcomes.
• Engage directly with donors through phone calls, meetings, and personalized communications to build and strengthen relationships.
• Actively solicit major gifts, annual donations, and other forms of support.
• Work closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, marketing and communications, and program staff to ensure alignment with organizational goals and effective communication of fundraising needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (preferred).
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in fundraising, with a successful track record in securing donations from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
• At least 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Skills in leadership, communication, and interpersonal relations.
• Experience with major gifts, annual giving, events, and grants.
• Familiarity with fundraising databases and best practices in nonprofit fundraising.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and execute strategies effectively.
• Comfort in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Deep commitment to the mission and values of Rising Ground.
• Ability to engage and inspire donors, foster relationships, and execute plans.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, confident in taking initiative.
• Comfortable working in a

Nice to Have

• Experience managing department budgets.
• Applicable skills and competencies in sales and marketing related to fundraising.
• Ability to think creatively and solve problems as they arise.

Qualifications

• Authorized to work in the U.S.

Benefits & Perks

• Work environment at the corporate office in Midtown Manhattan.
• Full-time position with hours Monday through Friday, with options for 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm, or 10 am - 6 pm.
• May require evenings and/or weekends based on events.
• Ability to work in-person in New York City for at least 3 days or more per week.
• Ability to travel to other Rising Ground sites if required.