Job Purpose
The Director of Development (DD) works closely with the Executive Director and Director of Finance to develop and implement the strategic fundraising goals of the Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA). The DD manages two staff members and oversees all aspects of fundraising and marketing at VIA, including: donor development (identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship); direct mail appeals; events; grant proposals; corporate sponsorships; and communications and public relations. The DD is a leadership position at VIA and will interact with senior management, the development team, and the Philanthropy Committee of Board of Directors to advance VIA’s mission of helping people overcome the challenges of autism.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Strategic planning: Consult with VIA stakeholders to establish annual and long-term strategic goals for the Development Department including revenue targets and expense budgets
• Major gifts: Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individuals capable of significant gifts
• Planned giving: Work with major donors and other high-net worth individuals on estate plans and deferred gifts to benefit VIA
• Annual direct mail appeals: Supervise annual direct mail solicitation
• Annual events: Supervise annual events, including the Gala, 5K fun run, and donor appreciation events
• Grant proposals: Supervise foundation and corporate grant proposals and reports
• Marketing and Publicity: Supervise external and internal communications with donors, staff, families, and the public, including newsletters, annual reports, website, and social media outlets
• Volunteer Coordination: Serve as primary staff liaison to the Philanthropy Committee of the Board of Directors and other volunteers groups
• Team supervision: Set goals for and delegate responsibility to Fundraising/Communications staff
• Other relevant duties

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree; Advanced degree preferred
• 7+ years of fundraising experience at non-profit organizations, including several years in major gift fundraising; Capital campaign experience preferred
• Ability to set and meet financial goals
• Ability to think strategically and creatively
• Strong writing, oral, and presentation communication skills
• Ability to multi-task, to meet deadlines, and to work independently
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office Suite computer skills
• Experience with constituent relationship management systems; Donor Pro experience a preferred
• Attention to detail and strong project management skills
• Experience supervising and mentoring team members
• Professional attitude and appearance
• Valid Driver’s License and willingness and capacity for moderate travel

 

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