What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Philanthropy position at Kids' Food Basket?
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Grand Rapids | Department: Philanthropy | Status: Exempt
Kids’ Food Basket | Grand Rapids
At Kids’ Food Basket, we believe healthy food is a right and not a privilege. Since 2002, we’ve grown from serving 125 students to providing over 11,000 nourishing meals every weekday across 68 schools in Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Allegan counties. But we’re more than meals. Through sustainable farming, education, and community engagement, we’re building a future where every child has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.
Position Summary
The Director of Philanthropy advances Kids' Food Basket's mission by leading strategic fundraising efforts that fuel sustainable growth and lasting community impact. This role provides leadership for the philanthropy team while cultivating meaningful relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners. Through thoughtful strategy, data-informed decision making, and exceptional stewardship, the Director of Philanthropy helps ensure the resources needed to create a more nourished future for every child.
What You'll Do
- Lead and execute the organization's annual philanthropy strategy, driving sustainable revenue growth through major gifts, grants, and strategic partnerships.
- Cultivate and steward a portfolio of key donors, foundations, and community partners while serving as a trusted ambassador for Kids' Food Basket.
- Lead, coach, and develop the philanthropy team, overseeing fundraising operations, proposal development, donor stewardship, and moves management.
- Use CRM data, fundraising metrics, and performance dashboards to monitor pipeline health, forecast results, and inform strategic decisions.
- Ensure exceptional donor experiences through timely stewardship, meaningful engagement, and high-quality communications and reporting.
- Partner with leaders across the organization to align fundraising strategies with organizational priorities and maximize mission impact.
What You'll Bring
- Bachelor's degree with 10 years of progressive fundraising experience, including at least four years of leadership experience.
- Proven success securing major gifts, leading fundraising strategies, managing donor portfolios, and achieving measurable revenue goals.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage donors, funders, colleagues, and community partners.
- Experience using CRM systems and fundraising data to manage pipelines, forecast performance, and drive results; Raiser's Edge experience is preferred.
- Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and financial management skills, including experience managing budgets and performance metrics.
- Valid driver's license and the flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, and a hybrid schedule with at least three days each week at one of our West Michigan locations.
Why You'll Thrive Here
- You'll lead a talented team while building meaningful relationships that create a lasting impact for children and families.
- You'll have the opportunity to shape fundraising strategy, influence organizational growth, and see the direct results of your leadership.
- You'll thrive in a collaborative, mission driven culture that values innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- You'll combine strategic thinking with purpose-driven work that helps build a more nourished future for our community.
Why You'll Love It
- Make a meaningful impact by helping ensure that every child has access to the healthy food they need to thrive.
- Join a passionate, values-driven organization where collaboration, generosity, and community are at the heart of everything we do.
- Enjoy a hybrid work environment, competitive benefits, generous paid time off, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Help transform generosity into nourishment, opportunity, and brighter futures for thousands of children across West Michigan.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you're an experienced fundraising leader who is inspired by building relationships, growing philanthropy, and advancing a mission that changes lives, we'd love to hear from you.
You may view the full job description and apply on the Kids' Food Basket careers page.