Director of Development

Director of Development 

National Priorities Project (NPP) is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide individuals, community groups, and national organizations with concrete tools to shape federal budget and policy priorities in ways that promote social and economic justice.  We pursue our mission by:

  • providing data on the local impact of federal spending
  • educating the public, the media, and elected officials
  • building alliances with social justice, human needs, peace, labor and environment policy groups, and collaborating with national organizations.  (See www.nationalpriorities.org)

NPP seeks a seasoned, creative professional with passion for our mission, who is eager to help diversify and expand NPP's funding base. The Development Director brings excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, and an ability to clearly articulate NPP's values and vision. S/he is responsible for strategizing and implementing a comprehensive development program which includes evaluating the outcomes of fundraising efforts and adjusting strategies as needed. The Director inspires and supports the NPP development team and all staff in building enduring, productive relationships with individual and institutional donors. Expert fundraising and donor engagement skills are required. The ideal candidate possesses rock-solid traditional fundraising expertise as well as the skills and vision to move NPP in new, tech-savvy directions with online fundraising and social marketing.   

Responsibilities

Foundations: Direct responsibility for foundation research, grant writing and stewardship.  Works with the Executive Director to determine overall priorities, and to identify, cultivate and maintain relationships with foundation leaders and program officers.  Involves program staff and board as needed.

Individual Donors:  Oversees and coordinates impeccable donor relations along with the Development Officer and the Executive Director.  Works in partnership with the Executive Director to identify, cultivate, and steward enduring and productive relationships with major donors.  Enjoys and excels at one-to-one fundraising. Has overall responsibility for designing and implementing a planned giving program. With the Executive Director, coordinates the Board of Directors participation in fundraising.

Strategic Communications:  Oversees the design, production and distribution of all fundraising related communications, such as innovative online strategies, and the effective use of social marketing, as well as traditional materials like brochures, case statements, direct mail appeals and annual reports.  Oversees direct mail communications with individuals and foundations. Coordinates with development staff, program staff and Executive Director to ensure consistent messaging in fundraising and program materials.

Event Planning: Oversees event planning responsibilities, including annual event, donor cultivation and appreciation events, and house parties.

Organizational Development:  Participates in strategic planning as requested by the Executive Director. Attends occasional Board of Directors meetings as needed.  Participates in staff meetings and undoing racism meetings.

Financial Planning:  Works with the Executive Director on annual revenue projections and in planning and managing the Development Department budget.  Develops and implements a long-range development plan.

Required Qualifications

  • 5-7 years demonstrated fundraising success with individuals and foundations
  • Proven track record in face-to-face fundraising (particularly with major donors) and the creation of single and multi-year development plans
  • Three years in a leadership position, including supervisory experience with a team building approach, goal setting and performance review.
  • Ease in thinking strategically, establishing annual goals, and managing for results
  • Excellent writing and interpersonal skills
  • Bachelors Degree
  • Tech savvy with higher than average computing skills
  • Familiarity with donor and CRM databases
  • Driver’s license and willingness to travel occasionally throughout the U.S.

Preferred

  • Academic Degree preferred in Social Sciences, Business, Marketing or related field
  • Public relations and marketing skills
  • Experience in an organization with a national focus
  • Knowledge of contemporary national social and economic issues, federal spending policies

Qualities and Skills

  • Creative leader who thrives on challenge
  • Demonstrated commitment to accountability and a results-oriented culture
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Sense of humor, resourcefulness, and a positive attitude
  • Knowledge of and experience in the nonprofit sector
  • Willing to work on building an anti-racist organization
  • Ability to work independently and contribute as an enthusiastic team player
  • Highly organized and able to work on multiple tasks with specific time frames
  • Sound judgment, professionalism and enthusiasm

Reporting and Supervision

The Director of Development reports to the Executive Director and supervises the Development Officer.  The Development Director is also responsible for convening the Development Committee quarterly.

Hours and Compensation

This position is full-time with medical/dental benefits. Position requires typical physical office abilities and some travel by auto, train, bus or plane.  Salary is commensurate with experience. 

TO APPLY

Send cover letter and resume to kris@nationalpriorities.org, or  
Kristine Elinevsky, Director of Administration & Finance 
National Priorities Project, 243 King Street, Suite 239, Northampton, MA 01060

Review of resumes will begin October 19th and continue until position is filled. NPP is an EO/AAA employer and committed to a diverse and multicultural staff.