Director of Development

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara, and the Southern Tier is seeking an experienced fundraising professional to help expand our capacity to provide life-changing mentorship to local youth. Are you ready to be part of the mentoring movement?

Organization Overview

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara and the Southern Tier’s (BBBS) mission is to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The organization is a local 501c3 that has been serving the Western New York Area for several decades, positively impacting the lives of thousands of local children. BBBS is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Position Summary

The Director of Development is responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the organization’s $1.3 million annual budget. This role focuses on cultivating donor relationships, managing fundraising events, enhancing donor engagement to ensure financial sustainability, and collaborating on grant writing. The Director of Development works closely with the CEO, the Board of Directors, the BBSB leadership team, and key stakeholders to advance the organization’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Implementation:

Develop and execute a diversified fundraising plan, including individual giving, major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, and special events.

Set annual fundraising goals and track progress against key performance metrics.

Collaborate with the CEO and Board to identify and cultivate prospective donors.

Partner with the Board of Directors to leverage their networks for fundraising efforts.

Support and guide board members in their fundraising responsibilities.

Individual & Major Donor Development:

Build and steward relationships with individual donors at all levels including monthly giving, annual appeals, and major gifts.

Develop strategies for donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

Implement an effective donor recognition and appreciation program.

Fundraising Events & Campaigns:

Plan and oversee fundraising events, including the annual gala, golf tournament, and peer-to-peer fundraising initiatives.

Lead volunteer committees related to fundraising activities.

Lead the execution of annual giving campaigns.

Communications & Marketing:

Work with the communications team to create compelling fundraising materials, including donor appeals, newsletters, and social media campaigns.

Ensure consistent messaging in all donor outreach and fundraising communications.

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

Minimum 5 years of nonprofit fundraising experience, with a proven track record of securing gifts and achieving fundraising goals.

Strong donor relationship management skills.

Experience planning and executing fundraising events.

Proficiency in donor management software (e.g., Salesforce, DonorPerfect, or similar CRM).

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including board members, donors, and community partners.

Highly organized, results-driven, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Work Environment & Benefits

Hybrid work environment with flexible scheduling options.

Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Opportunity to lead and grow the development efforts of a dynamic nonprofit organization.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $58,000.00 - $62,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Non-profit fundraising: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Buffalo, NY 14207: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Buffalo, NY 14207

Salary : $58,000 - $62,000