Director of Development & Communications

Ryan's Place is seeking a relationship-focused, strategic fundraiser to lead development, donor engagement, grants and events, and to guide our marketing and communications. This is a key leadership role on a small, committed team, with a direct line from your work to grieving children and families in our community.

About Ryan's Place

Ryan's Place provides a supportive and safe environment for grieving children, teens and their families. With 9 staff, an annual budget of about $1 million and many dedicated volunteers, we deliver programs that help families find hope and healing after a death. One year ago we moved into our new building. Our next chapter is building the sustainable support that will keep these programs strong for years to come.

What You'll Do

• Lead the annual fundraising plan, with goals for individual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships and events.
• Grow sustainable revenue through monthly giving, donor retention and planned giving.
• Partner with the President/CEO to cultivate and steward individual, corporate and foundation donors. You'll shape the strategy and prepare the ask; the CEO often leads the conversation.
• Research, write, submit and report on grants.
• Plan and lead fundraising events and secure business sponsorships, working with volunteer committees.
• Oversee marketing and communications, including the website, social media, newsletters, impact stories and public relations, and direct outside marketing vendors when that work is contracted.
• Manage the donor database and report on fundraising results to the CEO and Board of Directors.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is a strong relationship builder, clear communicator and strategic thinker who is just as comfortable building a plan as rolling up their sleeves to carry it out. You care about the mission of Ryan's Place and want to help expand its impact in our community.

• Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Three to five years of nonprofit development experience, with demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations and grant writing
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills
• Experience with donor databases or CRM systems and Microsoft Office
• Comfort with social media, website content and digital communications
• Highly organized and self-motivated, able to juggle multiple priorities
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle; ability to pass a background check
• Bonus: experience managing outside vendors or agencies, and knowledge of the Michiana community

Position Details: Director of Development and Communications, full-time, exempt

Reports to President/CEO

Location Goshen, Indiana

Salary based on experience

Benefits include health stipend; paid vacation and sick time; flexible work environment

How to Apply: Send a cover letter and resume to Launa Leftwich (lleftwich@ryansplace.org). Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.

• Ryan's Place is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.