Executive Director, Michigan Foundation for Agriculture

OBJECTIVE

Executive Director, Michigan Foundation for Agriculture Objective

The Michigan Foundation for Agriculture (MFA) envisions a future where agriculture is valued by everyone. The Executive Director leads all fundraising efforts of MFA, including annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, events sponsorship, programmatic partnerships and more. This leader will secure the resources that align with the strategic goals of Michigan Farm Bureau, expand the voice of agriculture across the state, and invest in the programs and initiatives that strengthen the vital connection between farms and communities. Working closely with the MFA Advisory Committee under the MFA Board of Directors, this leader will create and implement short-term and long-term plans, goals and objectives that inspire support from a variety of donors/funders/partners at every level.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Director, Michigan Foundation for Agriculture Responsibilities

External Fundraising: 50% of time, Internal Coordination: 25% of time, Administration: 25% of time.

Develop a fundraising strategy that ensures long-term organizational health and sustainability, ensuring resources match programmatic demands.

Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a robust portfolio of donors that includes individuals, corporations and other funders.

Oversee individual donor stewardship and corporate recognition program(s) that support retention and growth of giving.

 Lead the development of all donor materials, including fundraising appeals, e-appeals, gift acknowledgements, impact reports, and more.

Oversee both internal and external grants, working closely with colleagues across the MFB family of companies to identify funding needs, funding opportunities and more.

Work closely with the Center for Media and Marketing to celebrate and highlight the impact of gifts to the MFA, including but not limited to the creation ofpress releases, social media, feature stories in print and digital news, event promotions, and impact reports, as well as the creation of other marketing and advertising materials as needed to promote the MFA.

Oversee planning and facilitation of in-person fundraising events as needed.

Complete regular reports of fundraising activity and impact for the MFA Advisory Committee, the MFB Board of Directors, key donors, and other Farm Bureau stakeholders.

Support and encourage a culture of philanthropy among Farm Bureau members, staff, state and county leaders, and state and county Farm Bureaus, providing training and development opportunities that spark awareness and excitement for the efforts of MFA, and engage volunteer leaders in new/evolving ways.

Curate a community of like-minded partners/funders from across the state and beyond, who understand the need for and outcomes of support to the MFA.

 Monitor programs and projects funded by the MFA and refine the focus of MFA’s work in response to ongoing learning and reflection with program staff, community, members and partners.

Maintain regular communication with supporters and enlist member-leaders in cultivation and stewardship efforts.

Help promote collaboration among groups, organizations, corporations and individuals with whom MFA works.

Contribute to a purpose-driven, member-focused culture and positively represent MFA within communities across the state and beyond.

Working closely with finance, oversee the financial affairs of MFA, preparing and achieving annual budget targets and ensuring timely, accurate documentation, receipting and reporting of all gifts.

Provide oversight and support for donor-directed MFA funds, including the Agent Charitable Fund.

Manage the MFA Advisory Committee, working with the Chair and COO to select members, provide member onboarding and communication, set meetings, develop agendas, cultivate trend and feedback data, and enlist agricultural education partners.

Serve as the hub of philanthropy for the MFB  Family of Companies, working with colleagues across the system to ensure  strategic planning, coordination and deployment of asks – time, talent and treasure -  throughout the year.

Complete ad hoc assignments as directed by the Chief Operating Officer.

QUALIFICATIONS

Executive Director, Michigan Foundation for Agriculture Qualifications

Required

Bachelor's degree  required, or Associates Degree with equivalent experience may be considered

Minimum five years  fundraising experience

Demonstrated ability to develop and achieve budgeted goals/outcomes.

Experience working with a board of directors and/or volunteer leaders.

Experience in managing direct reports/supervisory abilities.

Management of programs, budgets and other administrative functions.

Proficient knowledge of Blackbaud Raisers Edge or other CRM/Donor Database

General knowledge of Michigan agriculture and excitement for the mission of Michigan Farm Bureau.

Consistent track record of success in securing gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations required.

Ability to speak and write persuasively about the mission, programs, and funding needs of the MFA.

Must possess a valid driver license with an acceptable driving record.

Experience working with farmers/producers/ag leaders.

Senior leadership experience with success in expanding an organization, division, department and/or teams.

Preferred

Certificate in Fundraising Management (CFRM) or CFRE preferred.

Experience with planned/estate giving preferred.

Note Farm Bureau offers a full benefit package including medical, dental, vision, and 401K.

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