Director of the Annual Fund

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Annual Fund Director to
lead our organization’s annual fundraising efforts. The Annual Fund
Director will be responsible for developing and implementing
comprehensive fundraising strategies aimed at engaging donors,
increasing annual giving revenue, and fostering a culture of
philanthropy within our community of esteemed Academy members and
friends. A key role in the Academy’s six-person development team,
the Director is both a strategic leader and hands-on manager of
day-to-day activities. The ideal candidate will have a proven track
record of success in fundraising, strong leadership skills, and a
passion for the Academy’s mission.

This is a full-time, in-office position based at the
Academy’s headquarters in Cambridge, MA with some remote work
allowable.  Some evening and weekend work may be required for
events and donor engagements.

 

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and Implement Annual Fundraising Strategy:

• Create and execute an annual fundraising plan that outlines
  strategies for donor acquisition, retention, and stewardship.
• Identify fundraising goals and develop metrics to measure
  progress and success.
• Engage governance volunteers for peer-to-peer solicitation and
  stewardship.
• Ensure timely and accurate recording and acknowledgement of all
  gifts.

Direct Mail and Digital Fundraising Campaigns:

• Oversee the planning, execution, and analysis of direct mail
  and digital fundraising campaigns.
• Collaborate with the communications and publications teams to
  develop compelling fundraising appeals and materials.

Major Gift Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with development colleagues to identify
  potential major gifts from high-net-worth annual fund donors.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Utilize fundraising data and analytics to evaluate the
  effectiveness of fundraising strategies and make data-driven
  decisions.
• Prepare regular reports on fundraising performance and progress
  towards goals.

Team Leadership and Collaboration:

• Mentor the Development Associate, providing guidance, support,
  and professional development opportunities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other departments,
  including communications, publications, events, finance, and
  programs, to align fundraising efforts with organizational
  goals.

 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s degree preferred), or
  equivalent
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with
  a focus on annual giving and donor relations.
• Proven track record of successfully meeting fundraising goals
  and increasing revenue.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability
  to inspire and motivate colleagues and volunteers.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the
  ability to build relationships and effectively communicate the
  organization’s mission and fundraising needs.
• Experience with fundraising software and CRM systems, with a
  preference for Salesforce.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, analyze data, and
  develop and implement fundraising plans.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission and values.