Director of Development

About Us: Youth Encouragement Services (YES) is a non-profit organization committed to empowering and supporting youth in South Nashville’s economically distressed neighborhoods. Through a variety of programs and services, we provide educational opportunities, mentorship, life skills development, and a safe environment for young people to thrive. YES encourages, inspires, and guides the youth of Nashville toward successful futures. We also work closely with a host of agency partners, including churches, schools, community groups, and government.

Position Overview: Youth Encouragement Services (YES) is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and results-oriented Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts. This position is crucial in advancing YES’s mission by building strong relationships with donors, securing funding, and overseeing campaigns. The Development Director will report to the Executive Director and work closely with the Board of Directors and other senior leadership team members.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Development:

• Lead the creation and execution of YES's annual fundraising strategy, including securing funding through major gifts, grants, events, and corporate partnerships.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with current and potential donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
• Manage and expand a portfolio of major donors, ensuring effective engagement and long-term relationships

Grant Writing & Management:

• Develop and maintain relationships with foundations and institutional funders.
• Research, identify, and pursue grant opportunities that align with the organization’s mission and programs.
• Write compelling and comprehensive grant proposals and manage submission processes.
• Oversee grant reporting, ensuring compliance with funder requirements and deadlines.

Campaign Management:

• Plan and manage fundraising events, donor appreciation events, and other community outreach activities.
• Develop and oversee digital and traditional campaigns to raise funds and increase awareness of YES’s mission.
• Work with the marketing coordinator to enhance donor engagement through newsletters, social media, and other marketing materials.

Strategy & Planning:

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and board of directors to set fundraising goals and identify new opportunities for revenue generation.
• Provide regular reports and updates on fundraising progress, financial projections, and donor activity to key stakeholders.

Community Outreach:

• Represent YES at public and community events to increase the organization's visibility and foster relationships with key stakeholders.
• Foster partnerships with local businesses, government organizations, and other community entities to further YES’s impact.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, marketing, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, securing major gifts, and managing campaigns.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing annual fundraising events.
• Strong knowledge of grant writing, donor relations, and fundraising platforms, and donor management software.
• Demonstrated success in cultivating major gifts and managing donor relationships.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong writing and storytelling skills with a track record of successful grant proposals.
• Experience with donor database systems and fundraising analytics

Preferred Skills:

• Established knowledge of the local Nashville community and philanthropic landscape.
• Ability to think creatively and solve problems in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for youth development and community impact.

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary:  Competitive salary based on experience

Health Insurance:  Health, dental, and vision insurance

Vacation:  10 days paid time off, 13 paid holidays

Hour expectations:  40 hours per week (specific start and end times negotiable) 

TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION:

If you are ready to join a dynamic team and are committed to building brighter futures for Nashville's youth, please send your resume and cover letter to Jeff Batts at Principle HR Solutions, jeff.batts@principlehrsolutions.com.

Youth Encouragement Services is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.