What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Development position at Gulf Coast Social Services?
The Director of Development is a key member of the leadership team, responsible for strategically directing and executing all aspects of the agency’s fundraising and philanthropic initiatives. Under the guidance of the CEO, this position oversees fundraising operations including annual giving, major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, donor stewardship, and planned giving. The Director of Development builds strong relationships with stakeholders, advances the organization’s mission, and ensures a diversified and sustainable funding portfolio.
1. Collaborates with the CEO, Board of Directors, and executive leadership to define fundraising priorities, set revenue targets, and develop strategic fundraising plans in alignment with organizational goals.
2. Manages the agency’s fundraising database (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Bloomerang, or Blackbaud CRM), ensuring accuracy, data integrity, and timely donor acknowledgment.
3. Cultivates, solicits, and stewards individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners. Actively participates in community networks.
4. Develops and maintains strategic partnerships in the community; serves as a visible ambassador for the organization at regional and local events.
5. Oversees all donor communications, including appeals, newsletters, social media content, and impact reports.
6. Coordinates all aspects of special events and fundraising campaigns, including planning, budgeting, logistics, sponsorship, and post-event analysis.
7. Implements and evaluates planned giving strategies to secure legacy gifts and long-term sustainability.
8. Builds and promotes a culture of philanthropy across all levels of the organization.
9. Serves as the primary liaison to the Board Fundraising Committee; prepares reports, materials, and presentations as needed. Solicits donations for Board members annually.
10. Leads special projects such as grant writing, marketing, networking outreach, etc. with regional leaders, consultants, and others.
11. Establishes systems to monitor fundraising performance, track KPIs, and adjust strategy as needed to meet or exceed revenue goals.
12. Ensures proper recognition and stewardship of all donors through timely communication and acknowledgment programs.
13. Provides leadership, training, and support to fundraising volunteers and staff involved in development activities.
14. Ensures compliance with ethical fundraising practices, donor intent, and IRS and charitable giving regulations.
15. As a member of the leadership team, works to reimage the current board and create regional boards with the objective of promoting regional members to the leadership board.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- 403(b) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you hold a bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field?
- Can you demonstrate five years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising and development leadership, preferably in the nonprofit, public service, or healthcare sectors?
- Have you demonstrated success in securing major gifts ($2500-$5000 range), writing and managing grants, and achieving fundraising goals?
- Are you proficient in donor management and CRM platforms such as Raiser’s Edge, Bloomerang, Blackbaud, DonorPerfect, or similar tools?
- Please elaborate on your understanding of digital fundraising, donor segmentation, marketing automation, and online campaign strategies.
Willingness to travel:
- 25% (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $80,000 - $90,000