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Path Forward

Director of Development

Path Forward, Arlington, Virginia, United States, 22201


Director of DevelopmentPosition Summary:

Reporting to the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, the Director of Development will serve as the operational and managerial lead of the Development Department. High-level responsibilities include managing 2-4 direct reports, collaborating with the CEO and Sr. Director to create an annual development plan and strategy, managing a portfolio of mid-level annual donors, maintaining, and innovating the department’s stewardship initiatives, implementing, and managing the development plan and calendar, and leading the financial operations of the department. The Director will be an experienced user of a development database, will have demonstrated skill in finance and budgeting, and have a strong understanding of the needs and interests of donors and prospects. This position will be an integral part of molding the philanthropic culture of PathForward’s Development team. Some evenings and weekends are necessary to attend community, fundraising, volunteer, and other philanthropic events to further the agenda of the development department. This position will sit at our office in the Courthouse neighborhood of Arlington, VA. This role is hybrid, in-office 2 - 3 days per week. Some weekend and evening work required to attend community and donor events.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising and DevelopmentOversee and project manage the departmental development and communications calendars.With high-level direction and collaboration from the Sr. Director, Strategic Partnerships, create and execute a development and communications plan that increases awareness and revenue to support the strategic direction of PathForward.Research foundation and some governmental funding opportunities and manages the work of a contracted grants specialist.In tandem with the contracted grant specialist, develops grant proposals and ensures compliance with grant requirements. Responsible for stewardship and cultivation of foundation donors.Maintain and grow an active portfolio of mid-level donors, establish and execute a yearly plan to move said donors up the pipeline and convert to large donors.Create a pipeline of new monthly donors; actively participate in community events to engage with potential new monthly donorsIn tandem with other members of the development team, represent PathForward at external events and corporate engagement opportunities.Oversee development of and management of donor and fundraising events, including major spring fundraiser and smaller events.Manage donor inquiries and refer donors to appropriate staff members when needed.Manages and oversees planned giving processes.All other duties and projects as assigned.Department Finances

Create and execute an annual giving plan to meet financial targets and support PathForward’s general operating fund.Fully understand and makes high-level decisions on the department’s finances, financial strategies, and financial goals. Provide department direction based on said strategies and goals.Provide regular analysis and reporting on the overall performance of fundraising against goals and strategic plan.Department Management

Identify and develop department team members while providing operational supervision, focus, coaching, professional development, and mentorship.Accomplishes staff and organizational results by communicating job expectations, planning, monitoring, and appraising job results.Qualifications and Skills

Dedication to PathForward’s mission and a desire to exceed annual fundraising goals to support PathForward programs and our clients, as well as a strong desire to operate on PathForward’s values.Keen ability to articulate PathForward’s mission, program objectives and funding needs persuasively to donors and the community.Confidence in managing processes around donor research, cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and renewal.Proven project management experience in a nonprofit or similar setting.Proven financial knowledge and acumen, fundraising and development setting preferred.Ability to work well under pressure, handle multiple projects simultaneously, and manage work under tight deadlines.Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.Ability to respond and operate strategically and effectively in a fast-past environment with a high level of professionalism.Ability to nurture and steward PathForward donors and volunteers.Strong analytical skills and ability to navigate development data with ease and expertise.Flexibility and organization to provide support on a range of needs from leadership.Strong willingness to be a team player.Ability to handle confidential materials with the utmost discretion.A highly proven level of integrity, with a high moral compass to back it up.Someone who refers to themselves as a “go-getter”.Experience and Education Requirements:

Minimum of 7-10 years’ experience in fundraising and/or development, preferably in a nonprofit organization.Minimum 2 years of experience in managing projects and people.Experience with a donor database required. Experience in DonorPerfect preferred.Preferred, not required bachelor’s degree, and/or equivalent experience in the field.

Physical Requirements

Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs.

Application Process

If you are a passionate and strategic development professional looking to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications.