Director of Development - Alexandria Library Foundation

OVERVIEW
The Alexandria Library Foundation is a nonprofit partner of Alexandria (VA) Library System. The Foundation provides a way for all those who appreciate the Library to support it. Through donations and advocacy, the Foundation amplifies Alexandria Library's impact to ensure its continued role as a source of knowledge, connection, and opportunity for everyone. Fundraising efforts provide support for library events, programs, materials, resources and professional development.

The Alexandria Library Foundation is seeking a Director of Development to lead the implementation of short-term and long-term fundraising efforts to increase philanthropic revenue from individuals, corporations, associations, foundations, and grants.

The Director of Development will lead all aspects of fundraising strategies and operations for the Alexandria Library Foundation. They will strengthen and facilitate relationships with current and future supporters, solicit contributions on behalf of the Foundation, and expand a community of philanthropic donors who share a belief in the mission of Alexandria Library.

The Development Director will report to the Alexandria Library Foundation President or designee, and receive guidance from the Alexandria Library Foundation Board. They will have access to key Library staff, including the Executive Director, Senior Communications Officer, the Division Chief/Administrative Services, and other staff as needed.

The Foundation will allocate money for development software, membership in relevant organizations, hosting potential large donors, printing, business cards, and other expenses. The Development Director will be provided with a laptop to manage the Foundation’s donor database, spreadsheets, outreach and communications.

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with the Foundation Board and the Alexandria Library Executive Director to understand the challenges and goals of the Library’s current fundraising landscape.
• Create a long-term fundraising calendar for board members and staff to track fundraising efforts.
• Review the current list of donors/sponsors and fundraising strategies to determine realistic goals and growth for the coming year.
• Collaborate with Foundation Board members to Identify potential donors and sponsorship opportunities.
• Support the Alexandria Library Executive Director to initiate donor/sponsor introductions, and build relationships with prospective major donors and individual small donors.
• Manage and track donor and fundraising information using the provided software.
• Plan and conduct online fundraising campaigns such as Spring2Action and #GivingTuesday.
• Write and send email communications to provided Foundation lists.
• Create and print flyers and other printed media to support fundraising efforts.
• Promote Foundation activities via website and social media platforms
• Plan and conduct one or more library-related fundraising event(s) that are appropriately-scaled to the Foundation’s fundraising goals.
• Update Foundation donors and sponsors on Alexandria Library’s impacts in the community.
• Attend in-person six board meetings per year, to present updates, findings and recommendations.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in the field.
• Experience working with libraries, public institutions, or non-profits on fundraising strategies.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills that include the sensitivity, good judgement and discretion needed for cultivating donor relationships.
• Ability to collaborate with the Alexandria Library administrative team and also to work independently.
• Experience with development software DonorPerfect.
• Experience with social media marketing campaigns and Constant Contact.
• Experience organizing small and large fundraising events.
• Energy and passion for Alexandria Library Foundation’s mission.
• Knowledge of Alexandria, and its communities, businesses, and philanthropic activities.

LOCATION, HOURS, AND COMPENSATION

This is a part-time contract position for 20 hours per week. The work schedule and location are flexible according to what is needed to accomplish tasks at a particular time.

This position is a hybrid of remote work and in-person/on-site meetings, as needed. The Foundation will provide office space at Charles Beatley Central Library, located at 5005 Duke St, Alexandria, VA 22304.

The salary for the one-year contract is $45,000, with a 5% commission on funds raised above the Foundation’s annual goal.

The contract duration spans one year, with a probationary period for the first 6 months. At the conclusion of the one-year contract, achievements will be reviewed with the possibility of an extension for another year, if the Development Director’s approach has been successful and sustainable.

APPLICATION

For best consideration please apply by May 5, 2025. Provide your resume, two professional references, and a cover letter describing your relevant experiences, skills and interest. E-mail these materials to chairman.libraryboard@alexlibraryva.org with the subject line “Applying for Director of Development.”

The Foundation supports the Library’s efforts to celebrate equity and diversity within our community and staff by:

• Offering programs and resources that reflect our uniquely multicultural community.
• Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Fostering an atmosphere of dignity and respect.
• Providing opportunities for all staff members to grow and excel.