Development Associate

Who we Are

The North Carolina League of Conservation Voters (NCLCV) is a pragmatic, results-oriented, non-partisan organization whose mission is to protect the health and quality of life for all North Carolinians. We elect environmental champions, advocate for environmental policies that protect our communities, and hold elected leaders accountable for their decisions. We create a political environment that will protect our natural environment.  

Our sister organization, NC League of Conservation Voters Foundation, connects and engages people to protect our natural environment and promote the well-being of our communities. We engage people in the democratic process, organize in communities to connect environmental policies to people’s daily lives, cultivate environmental leaders, and advocate for policies at the state and local level that protect the health and quality of life for all North Carolinians.

Position Description

The Development Officer is a key member of our development team, working with the Development Director and Director of Communications and Membership to grow the number of mid-level ($1,000-$25,000) gifts for the organization. This role will be instrumental in stewardship functions, ongoing mid-level donor relations, events, and recruitment of new donors. 

Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the Development Director to develop strategy, align efforts, and set goals. 
• Cultivate and steward mid-level gifts from individuals by maintaining frequent contact with current donors and developing new relationships with prospects.
• Coordinate cultivation and stewardship meetings with prospects and donors for the Director of Development and Executive Director.
• Oversee special projects including but not limited to events (e.g., annual awards event, house parties) and special fundraising initiatives (e.g., donor cultivation engagements) that support fundraising efforts. 
• Actively manage a portfolio mid-level prospects and donors.
• Develop and participate in all aspects of the gift cycle, including initiating contacts with existing and potential donors, and developing and implementing appropriate cultivation strategies for them.
• Move potential donors in an appropriate and timely fashion toward solicitation and gift closure.
• Represent NCLCV at external functions and events.
• Maintain stewardship; demonstrate empathetic disposition, and perseverance; reflect optimistic and positive attitude, and convey sensitivity to needs of the donors.
• Track and report progress using specific metrics.
• Manage systems and CRM software to track and cultivate donors and prospects, including the donor database (e.g. EveryAction) and wealth screening tools (e.g., WealthEngine).
• Partner with communications staff to coordinate and integrate membership stewardship, direct mail, online fundraising, and expand donor outreach capacity.
• Work collaboratively with development, communications, and program staff to develop compelling materials and stories to maximize fundraising results.
• Assists with organizational marketing and communications, including media outreach. Occasionally serves as spokesperson for the organization.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Work Experience:

• 2 years related fundraising or organizing experience. 
• Demonstrated strength in relationship management. Ability to understand the needs and interests of donors in order to develop long-term relationships with them.
• Experience in, or exposure to, asking for and closing gifts of $1,000 or more.
• Experience in managing and tracking multiple prospects and donors.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams, preferably in a non-profit or in political fundraising. 
• Experience working with 501(c)3, 501(c)4, and political organizations. 

Cultural Competence: 

• Shares our commitment to increasing racial diversity in our movement and organization, integrating justice and equity into the work we do, and ensuring an inclusive organizational culture.

Skills:

• Ability to write well and effectively communicate the mission, goals, and needs of an organization to donors, and ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, accurately, and concisely.
• Possess high level of intellectual curiosity.
• Demonstrated experience using listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships and motivate donors and volunteers.
• Knowledge of and passion for environmental issues and politics. 

Compensation and Conditions: Salary commensurate with experience and ability. Willingness to adapt work schedule as needed to fulfill mission. Ability and willingness to travel. This position is based in Raleigh, NC. 

To Apply: Send cover letter and resume to jobs@nclcv.org with “Development Officer” in the subject line. No phone calls please. Position open until filled. 

NCLCV is an equal opportunity employer committed to a racially just, equitable, and inclusive workplace.