Associate Director of Development

The Associate Director of Development has a key role in securing philanthropic contributions and increasing community support to further the mission of the Wolf River Conservancy.  The purpose of this position is to expand organizational philanthropic funding through Annual Giving and increasing special event revenue through sponsorships, in-kind contributions, ticket sales, and registrations.

Essential Functions
• Grow operational funding with key responsibilities for Annual Giving and Special Events (Restoration Series, Discover the Greenway and the Greenway Soiree).
• Work with other staff to ensure quality social media posting and update various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. in conjunction.
• Assist Chief Development Officer in all aspects of campaign with special emphasis on:
o Planning and implementing cultivation, special events and recognition activities
o Tracking donor retention and engagement
o Researching current and prospective donors and providing background info (summary/strategy) to solicitor(s)
o Gaining proficiency in Donor Perfect (donor tracking system) for entering pledges, preparing reports, pledge reminders, contact notes, etc.
o Attend donor meetings and special events
o Manage execution of new fundraising strategies as presented.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree or three to five years’ experience fundraising for a non-profit organization
• Computer skills: database management (preferably Blackbaud or CRM program), research tools, MS Office software (particularly Excel and Word, with PowerPoint a plus).
• A pleasant, outgoing personality
• Experience in event planning, contract negotiating and securing event sponsorships.

• Superior written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience preparing and writing grant applications/ sponsorship proposals and developing and implementing strategic gift solicitations
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Demonstrated ability to maximize opportunities to steward donors to further enhance relationships.

Physical Requirements*
• Standing and/or sitting for long periods of time.
• Continuous verbal communication, visual activity to effectively manage others.
• Continuous manual dexterity to type, operate a computer, operate a phone.
• Occasional reaching, lifting, pushing and/or pulling up to 50 pounds.
• Occasional outdoor work to visit properties where good physical condition, vision and hearing are required to walk. Properties may or may not have developed trail systems and can consist of steep terrain.
• Driving to sites requires use of personal vehicle (Note: mileage reimbursed).
• Must be capable of working periodically in harsh environments as needed including, but not limited to cold, damp conditions, hot humid conditions, exposure to hazardous plants and animals such as poison ivy, venomous snakes, biting insects, and other natural hazards.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.