What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Director Fund Development and External Relations position at YWCA Central Alabama?
YWCA Central Alabama is a social justice organization dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. YWCA Central Alabama’s vision is to create a more caring community. We work every day to make a positive change in the lives of individuals and the community.
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TITLE: |
Senior Director Fund Development and External Relations |
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REPORTS TO: |
Chief Executive Officer |
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CLASSIFICATION: |
EXEMPT/MANAGEMENT |
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Position Overview
The Senior Director of Development & External Relations is a member of the executive leadership team and reports to the CEO. This role leads all fund development strategies, fundraising initiatives, donor relations, grant development, capital campaigns, and community/partner engagement. The position works closely with leadership and the Board to support strategic planning and financial sustainability with a focus on new opportunities to obtain ongoing and increased support from corporations, public and private organizations, faith communities, and individuals.
Essential Functions
- Lead annual fundraising programs, events, and special initiatives; build sustainable partnerships and legacy giving opportunities.
- Oversee capital campaign activities and coordinate with Finance to ensure clear budget objectives.
- Develop and implement comprehensive fund development plans, including corporate and individual giving, major/planned gifts, grants, digital campaigns, and donor engagement strategies.
- Cultivate relationships with donors, partners, and key stakeholders in collaboration with the CEO and Finance leadership.
- Manage grant development, including strategy, prospecting, proposal writing, and compliance across government, foundation, and corporate sources.
- Conduct donor research to strengthen cultivation and solicitation strategies.
- Ensure department policies, procedures, and reporting systems are effective and up to date.
- Monitor budgets and financial performance for all fund development activities.
- Represent YWCA Central Alabama at community events and in external communications.
- Oversee team operations, staffing, training, performance, and professional development.
- Develop communication and engagement strategies to elevate the organization’s visibility and support fundraising goals.
- Maintain a high level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the mission.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in business, law, public policy, or related field preferred.
- Minimum five (5) years of experience in fund development, government relations, or related fields; management experience required.
- Strong strategic thinking, communication, relationship-building, and critical thinking skills.
- Experience collaborating with executives, boards, and external stakeholders.
- Technology-savvy; familiarity with donor management or grant software preferred.
- CFRE certification is highly desired.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally and regionally.
Work Environment
- Full-time, salaried position; standard weekday hours with evening/weekend events as needed.
- Office-based role requiring computer use and mobility throughout the building, occasional travel to community sites or partner locations.
- Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. as needed.
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Individuals qualified for this position must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. If reasonable accommodation is needed to successfully participate in the job application or interview process or to perform the essential job functions, notify the Human Resources department, who will determine if the request can be met or whether it will cause undue hardship for the organization.
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