Position Title:
Director, Development and External Engagement
Reports to:
Executive Director
Salary Range:
$115,000 - $140,000
Summary
The Director, Development and External Engagement lead the strategy and execution of all private & public sector fundraising and external partnership efforts for Say Yes! Cleveland. This role is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive development plan that includes major gifts, corporate and foundation relations, public-private partnerships, and annual giving.
The Director works closely with the Executive Director and Board to advance fundraising priorities and engages in external communications support, as needed, to strengthen donor-facing materials and messaging.
Essential Job Functions
-
Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to meet organizational revenue goals, including major gifts, institutional funding, annual campaigns, and partnership development.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual donors, with a focus on building and sustaining a strong major gifts pipeline.
- Secure funding through corporate and foundation relationships and lead the development of public-private partnerships aligned with organizational priorities.
- Partner with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to support fundraising efforts, including preparing materials, facilitating introductions, and leveraging networks.
- Research, write, and manage grant proposals and reports, ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
- Plan and implement annual giving strategies and targeted fundraising initiatives.
- Collaborate with external communications consultants and internal stakeholders to develop donor communications and select marketing materials that support development goals.
- Maintain accurate donor records and oversee stewardship activities, including tracking engagement and ensuring timely reporting.
- Work cross-functionally with program and finance staff to align funding requirements, program delivery, and reporting.
- Support Development-related Board committee(s) to advance fundraising strategy and performance.
Additional Requirements
-
Demonstrated ability to manage a full fundraising portfolio independently, including strategy, execution, and reporting.
- Experience working with or supporting a Board of Directors in fundraising activities.
- Experience managing multiple funding streams simultaneously (individual, corporate, foundation, public funding).
DISCLAIMER: “Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.”
