Director of Development

Job Title: Director of Development 

Organization: Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation 

Reports To: Executive Director 

Position Overview: 

The Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation (UDAEF) is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and mission-driven Director of Development to lead and manage the Foundation’s fundraising efforts. The Director of Development will be responsible for generating revenue through a variety of channels, including donor cultivation, sponsorship opportunities, and grant acquisition. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the arts and education, possess strong relationship-building skills, and have a proven track record in nonprofit fundraising. 

This position is instrumental in ensuring the Foundation’s sustainability and growth, and will directly impact the success of UDAEF’s programming and community outreach. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Fundraising Strategy & Campaign Management 

• Lead the development and execution of the Foundation’s annual fundraising plan, including major gifts, individual giving campaigns, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing. 
• Create and implement strategies to expand the donor base and enhance donor engagement/retention. 
• Develop targeted campaigns for specific donor segments, including major donors, mid-level donors, and grassroots supporters. 
• Oversee the planning and execution of key fundraising events, both virtual and in-person, ensuring engagement with both current and prospective donors. 
• Develop and manage a robust sponsorship program, identifying potential sponsors, cultivating relationships, and ensuring deliverables are met. 

Donor & Sponsor Relations: 

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with donors, sponsors, and key stakeholders. 
• Ensure that all donor and sponsor interactions are handled with professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness. 
• Oversee the creation of donor communications, including regular updates, stewardship reports, thank-you letters, and recognition materials. 
• Identify and cultivate new relationships with potential donors, sponsors, and grantors. 

 Grant Management & Strategy: 

• Lead efforts in identifying new grant opportunities and ensure successful applications to government, corporate, and foundation funders. 
• Manage and track grant applications, reporting requirements, and compliance with funding terms. 
• Maintain relationships with grantors and work collaboratively to ensure successful outcomes and renewals. 

Financial Oversight & Reporting: 

• Develop and manage the annual development budget, ensuring all activities are executed within the allocated financial parameters. 
• Track and report on fundraising progress and results to the Executive Director and Board of Directors on a regular basis. 
• Ensure accurate record-keeping for all fundraising activities, including donations, pledges, and sponsorships. 

Team Leadership & Collaboration: 

• Work closely with the Executive Director and Program Leaders to set strategic goals for the Foundation’s fundraising efforts. 
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to ensure the Foundation’s fundraising messaging aligns with its mission, brand, and goals. 

Qualifications: 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred. 
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive fundraising experience in the nonprofit sector, with demonstrated success in securing major gifts, sponsorships, and grants. 

Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling case statements, donor appeals, and grant proposals. 
• Proven ability to cultivate and sustain relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundation partners. 
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously. 
• Proficiency in fundraising software (Salesforce preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite. 

Personal Attributes:

• Passion for the mission of the Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation and the role of arts and education in the community. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. 
• A creative thinker with the ability to develop innovative solutions and strategies to meet revenue goals. 

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Salary: $55-60k commensurate with experience.  
• Benefits: Competitive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. 

How to Apply: 

Please submit your resume and a cover letter demonstrating why you’re an excellent fit for this position to Justin Heimbecker, UDAEF Executive Director, at jheimbecker@udfoundation.org. Please submit interest and materials by Friday, January 31st.  

In your cover letter, please include specific examples of your fundraising achievements and how you would approach the role of Director of Development at UDAEF. 

About the Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation: 

The Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation (UDAEF) is committed to enhancing the cultural and educational landscape of Upper Darby and its surrounding communities. The Foundation supports a variety of programs that promote arts education, creativity, and access to the arts for all, particularly underserved populations. UDAEF is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that encourages participation, collaboration, and community engagement.