Director of Development

The Director of Development will be responsible for designing, implementing, and leading comprehensive fundraising strategies that align with the Foundation’s mission and long-term goals. This individual will build and maintain relationships with key community investors (donors), corporate sponsors, and grant makers while overseeing all development initiatives. The Director of Development will work closely with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, and other team members to create and execute fundraising plans that ensure financial growth and sustainability.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to donor cultivation and fundraising, comfortable working in a start-up environment where flexibility and innovation are essential.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Revenue Generation

• Develop, recommend, and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan to meet annual and long-term revenue goals.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundation grants to secure financial support.
• Create and implement annual giving campaigns, major gifts programs, planned giving strategies, and special fundraising initiatives.
• Lead efforts to research, prepare, and manage grant applications, ensuring compliance with funding requirements and timely reporting.
• Track fundraising progress and adjust strategies as needed to maximize revenue growth.

Community Investor Relations & Stewardship

• Build and maintain strong, meaningful relationships with community investors and funding partners.
• Develop and execute stewardship plans that ensure donor engagement, recognition, and retention.
• Represent the Foundation at community events, networking opportunities, and donor meetings to enhance visibility and increase engagement.
• Maintain accurate donor records in the C-Suite donor management system, ensuring timely acknowledgments and personalized communications.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Work closely with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, and staff to align fundraising efforts with organizational priorities.
• Provide leadership in donor communications and marketing efforts, including print and digital materials that support fundraising campaigns.
• Supervise and support volunteers and future development staff, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities.
• Partner with nonprofit leaders, local businesses, and community organizations to expand collaborative fundraising opportunities.

Data Management & Reporting

• Oversee fundraising data management, including tracking donor activity, campaign performance, and financial outcomes.
• Prepare regular reports for the President & CEO and Board of Directors on fundraising progress, challenges, and opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all fundraising regulations, ethical standards, and best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• At least five years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a proven track record of developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies.
• Proficiency in donor management systems and fundraising software.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time management abilities.
• Creative, self-starter attitude with a donor-centered approach.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or fundraising certification (CFRE) preferred.
• Experience in Cabarrus County, North Carolina’s philanthropic community.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising for start-up organizations.
• Knowledge of planned giving, capital campaigns, and digital fundraising techniques.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications.
• Benefits: Retirement plan options, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
• Work Environment: Onsite with flexibility for remote and in-office work.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following to info@greatercabarrusfoundation.org with the subject line “Director of Development Application”:

• Resume
• Cover letter detailing fundraising experience and philosophy
• Three professional references

Application Deadline: May 15, 2025

• The Greater Cabarrus Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.