The Position of Development Officer

The position of development officer

Under the general direction of the Executive Director and working in close collaboration with staff lawyers and program directors, the Development Officer is a senior position which holds overall responsibility for the organization’s fundraising programs - direct mail, special events, monthly giving, and major gifts will be directed by the incumbent. The Development Officer provides overall development policy and strategic advice to the Executive Director and program teams and is a key member of the organization’s management team.

Responsibilities

The Development Officer has overall responsibility for developing, coordinating, and implementing the organization’s Development Program

• Develops an effective development plan including overall fundraising, in collaboration with the Executive Director, staff lawyers and program directors
• Provides hands-on management of implementation of the Development operational plan and budget to ensure that the organization’s long-term and annual development plans and strategies are being met
• Provides overall development policy and strategic advice to the Executive Director and organization as a whole
• Coordinates the activities of staff to ensure that all development work is effectively planned and implemented
• Coordinates and oversees the planning, scheduling, and budgeting of all appeals
• Oversees data selection for donor mailings and the acquisition of lists for prospect mailings/telemarketing
• Leads the development of a “wealthy individuals” program – researches and coordinates the “ask” both personally and by assigning various board or staff to each ask as appropriate
• Ensures appropriate donor relations including acknowledgement letters and other correspondence, premiums, newsletters, special mailings, telephone and in-person contact
• Oversees the maintenance of the membership database including ensuring the timely and accurate processing and acknowledgement of all donations and participates in the development and implementation of donor database software and hardware enhancements/refinements
• Monitors all foundation outreach activities and, in collaboration with appropriate staff, participates in relationship- building, content development, follow-up and reporting
• Provides timely and accurate analysis of all programs and reports to the Executive Director and the rest of the organization as required
• Attends regular management team meetings to address organizational issues and collaborates on organizational initiatives as a member of the management team
• Contributes to the development of plans and strategies and the resolution of operational issues together with other teams
• Participate in general staff meetings

Qualifications and key abilities

• Minimum of three (3) years experience development (fundraising/donor relations), including highly developed fundraising research, writing, editorial and messaging of fundraising requests
• Proven track record with previous NGOs in the ability to successfully raise funds, make presentations, direct mail activities, prepare foundation requests and supervise and co-ordinate an energetic staff team
• Relevant degree and/or equivalent educational qualifications
• Energetic and self-directed, with effective time management and organizational skills including the ability to deal with several priorities at the same time
• Strong strategically-focused analytical skills, good common sense; Capacity to provide leadership and to collaborate with others in a team situation
• Well-developed inter-personal and conflict resolution and negotiating skills
• Excellent communications skills, both oral and written
• Computer skills including familiarity with word processing, database, and Internet
• Strong personal commitment to protecting the environment
• A good sense of humor

Provided for reference only.
Always consult current legislation in your jurisdiction to create policies and procedures for your organization.

HR Council for the Nonprofit Sector