Director of Development

The Director of Development is responsible for leading Kathy’s House’s fundraising efforts, including donor engagement, special events, corporate sponsorships and grant writing. This position will focus on developing and executing engaging events, financial strategies to increase revenue, engaging donors, and building long-term relationships.

Key responsibilities include:

Donor Engagement and Stewardship:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations to foster long-term engagement and support. 
• Design and implement donor engagement strategies to ensure donor retention and increased giving levels, including personalized outreach, recognition programs, and donor appreciation initiatives.

Event Planning and Management:

• Oversight and management of events, including large gala, golf outing and smaller “friend raisers”. 
• Work closely with the marketing team to ensure that donors are kept informed of organizational progress and impact. 
• Plan and execute all major fundraising events, ensuring alignment with Kathy’s House mission and revenue goals. 
• Oversee all event logistics, including vendor management, budget oversight, marketing, and event execution. 
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to promote events and ensure high attendance and fundraising success. 
• Develop sponsorship packages and engage corporate partners to secure event sponsorships. 
• Ensure post-event analysis and reporting to evaluate outcomes and identify opportunities for improvement.

Corporate Sponsorship and Community Partnership Development:

• Lead efforts to increase corporate sponsorships, developing strong partnerships with businesses and community organizations. 
• Create tailored sponsorship proposals that align with corporate goals and promote the organization’s mission. 
• Manage relationships with corporate sponsors, ensuring their engagement and recognition at events and in other communication channels. 
• Explore and develop partnerships with community organizations to enhance the organization’s presence and support.

Fundraising Strategy:

• Working with the CEO, develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan that aligns with Kathy’s House’s strategic goals. 
• Lead the creation and execution of annual and long-term fundraising campaigns, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and events. 
• Develop fundraising forecasts, budgets, and performance metrics to track the success of development efforts.

Grant Writing and Oversight:

• In collaboration with Grant Writer, the Development Director will oversee the identification, research, and development of grant applications to foundations, corporations, and government agencies. 
• Supervision of the preparation and submission of all grant proposals and reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with funder requirements. 
• Work with Grant Writer to ensure proper grant tracking, fund allocation, and reporting. 
• Creation of grant budget and ensure that Grant Writer is meeting determined goals.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Oversee donor database management, ensuring accurate tracking of donor information, gifts, and engagement activities. 
• Analyze donor and fundraising data to identify trends, measure the effectiveness of strategies, and make informed decisions for future planning. 
• Provide regular reports on fundraising progress, event outcomes, and donor engagement for the CEO, board, and committee.

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or a related field, or relevant experience. 
• 3+ years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, and event management 
• Proven track record in securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants. 
• Demonstrated experience in planning and executing successful fundraising events. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and stakeholders. 
• Proficiency in donor management software, CRM platforms, and grant tracking systems. 
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines. 
• A valid WI driver’s license and ability to travel locally and regionally as needed 
• Physical demands for this position include sitting, standing, bending, walking, lifting, and/or moving up to 40 lbs.