DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Job Title:  Director of Development

Job Classification (FLSA): Exempt, 40 Hours 

Supervisor: Executive Director

The Brooklyn Kindergarten Society (BKS) is the original “born in Brooklyn.” We were founded in 1891, and for 130 years, BKS has helped provide high-quality early childhood education to working families. BKS has grown up with the borough and continues to be a leader in equitable access to early childhood education. We provide full day, year-round academic experiences and care for children ages 2-5 years old. Our curriculum is play based and marries together reading, writing, movement and music, with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning. Our goal is to ensure that Brooklyn’s youngest learners have an equitable first educational step. 

JOB PURPOSE

The purpose of the Director of Development role is to lead and manage BKS's fundraising and development efforts, ensuring successful creation, implementation, and execution of strategies aimed at securing & maintaining financial support for BKS. The Director of Development will work to enhance donor engagement, grow revenue streams, and ensure long-term sustainability for BKS. This role will collaborate with the Executive Director, Director of Finance, and all other key stakeholders to meet financial targets and advance BKS strategic priorities.

SCOPE OF INFLUENCE 

• Drive revenue generation to shape the financial sustainability and growth of BKS.

• Identify and pursue new funding opportunities through grants, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and special events.

• Lead fundraising strategy, grant donor engagement, philanthropic partnerships that directly impact BKS's ability to expand access to high-quality early childhood education.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES 

• Fundraising Strategy and Execution:

  • In consultation with the Executive Director and Director of Finance, develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to meet the financial needs of BKS. 

  • Lead efforts in securing gifts from foundations, corporations,  government sources and individuals.

  • Cultivate, steward, and expand relationships with donors, prospects, and key stakeholders. Manage a portfolio of donors.

  • Identify and pursue new fundraising opportunities, including major gifts, planned giving, and corporate partnerships.

  • Serve on the Management Team.
    

• Grant Management:

  • Expanding foundation and government revenue is the primary short and mid-term goal for this position. 

  • Research, write, and manage grant proposals to government entities, foundations, and other funding sources.

  • Track and report on grant outcomes to ensure compliance with funding requirements.

  • Build relationships with grant-making organizations to strengthen future funding opportunities.

• Board and Donor Relations and Stewardship:

  • Engage Board and volunteer leadership in identifying potential major donors for cultivation.

  • Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to create a strategy for identifying and cultivating new Board members, as well as a process for onboarding new members. 

  • Create a donor stewardship program to engage current donors and cultivate long-term relationships.

  • Design and implement donor recognition programs to celebrate key contributions.

  • Ensure timely, thoughtful communication with donors and potential supporters.

• Special Events:

  • Work closely with the Development consultant to oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, including the annual Yuletide Ball, community events, and donor receptions.

  • Develop and manage event budgets and timelines to ensure successful fundraising outcomes.

  • Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless event logistics.

• Management, Communications and Marketing:

  • Work collaboratively with other departments to align fundraising efforts with programmatic and organizational goals.

  • Create the communication strategy and execution of the messaging and marketing material related to fundraising efforts. 

  • Represent the organization at public events and networking opportunities to raise awareness and garner support.

  • Develop and manage donor communications, including newsletters, annual reports, and other publications.

• Budget and Financial Oversight:

  • Develop and manage the development department’s annual budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and effective ROI on fundraising activities.

  • Monitor fundraising performance, track goals, and adjust strategies as needed to meet targets.

OTHER

• All other duties as assigned by Executive Director

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., nonprofit management, business, or communications). A master’s degree is a plus.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

• Proven track record of successful fundraising, including grant writing, major gifts, and corporate partnerships.

• Strong knowledge of the early childhood education sector and a passion for supporting the development of young children.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and community leaders.

• Experience managing and mentoring staff.

• Proficiency in fundraising software (e.g., Salesforce, Blackbaud, etc.), Microsoft Office, and social media platforms.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a flexible and proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Strong organizational and project management skills and attention to detail