Position Summary: 

You are a talented, motivated self-starter who loves to learn and thrives in an entrepreneurial minded organization. You are detail oriented, confident, ambitious, resilient, and persistent. You are comfortable and productive working as part of a high-performance team. You will play a fundamental role in achieving our customer acquisition and revenue growth objectives.

MindSpark Learning is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Development and Fundraising to lead our fundraising initiatives and cultivate relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in development and fundraising, excellent communication skills, and a passion for advancing education innovation. This role is critical to ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of our organization.

MindSpark (MSL) has the heart and soul of a nonprofit and the DNA of a startup. We believe that education is the single biggest lever in uplifting people and the planet - creating prosperity for all. MSL has a unique culture of gratitude, celebration, and camaraderie. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet annual and long-term financial goals.
• Collaborate with the CEO and Board of Directors to identify funding priorities and align fundraising efforts with organizational objectives.

1. Donor Relations and Stewardship:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with existing donors, ensuring regular communication and engagement.
• Identify and engage potential new donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations, and government entities.
• Develop and execute donor recognition programs to acknowledge and thank supporters.

1. Fundraising Campaigns:

• Plan and manage fundraising campaigns, including annual appeals and special events.
• Oversee the creation of fundraising materials, including proposals, grant applications, and reports.
• Utilize data-driven approaches to analyze the effectiveness of campaigns and make recommendations for improvement.

1. Grant Management:

• Identify and pursue grant opportunities that align with MindSpark Learning’s mission and programs.
• Oversee grant contractors in their preparation and submission of high-quality grant proposals, ensuring compliance with all requirements and deadlines.
• Manage grant reporting and ensure timely communication with funders.
• Lead and mentor the development team, fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment.

1. Financial Management:

• Monitor and report on fundraising progress, including revenue tracking and forecasting.
• Ensure compliance with all financial and legal regulations related to fundraising activities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in development and fundraising, with a proven track record of achieving fundraising goals.
• Strong knowledge of fundraising principles, methods, and best practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives.
• Demonstrated experience in grant writing and managing donor relations.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and CRM systems.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Leadership experience with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Passion for education and a commitment to the mission of MindSpark Learning.

Compensation:

Estimated Starting Salary: $75,000-$80,000 annually, less applicable withholdings and deductions, paid bi-weekly. (Note that actual salary offered may vary based on relevant factors as determined by the Company, which may include experience, qualifications, and skill set.)

Wellbeing:

MSL offers a competitive benefit package to eligible full-time employees, which currently includes medical, dental, vision plans, 401(k) with employer matching contributions, and life insurance. MSL offers three weeks of flexible paid time off - with four additional weeks of paid time off while MSL recharges as an organization during the week of Memorial Day, the second full week in July, the week of U.S. Thanksgiving, and workdays between December 24th and January 1st. MSL provides ample opportunities for upskilling and personal professional development ranging from monthly team learning experiences to individualized opportunities.

Inclusion:

MSL is female-founded, female-led, and women currently make up 70% of our workforce and 100% of our leadership team. We recruit and promote without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, or veteran status. We understand the importance of creating a safe and thriving work environment and encourage individualism and authenticity in every member of our team.

Location:

Please note that the role is based in Lakewood, CO. While we have flexibility around the timing for relocation and prefer in-person applicants but are open to remote applicants. Most employees work in hybrid mode and come together in our beautiful 11,000 square-foot space designed as a center for creativity, collaboration, and innovation – with a gorgeous community garden and outdoor community space.