The Director of Individual Philanthropy is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting prospective donors while securing philanthropic support with a focus on major and planned gifts. Working closely with senior leadership, board members, and volunteers, this role plays a critical part in this San Diego based charity's efforts to maintain and grow its donor base. The Director will lead the Individual Philanthropy Team in managing relationships with donors, planning fundraising events, and coordinating direct mail campaigns, all while helping guide strategic initiatives to increase financial support for the organization.
About the Role:
The ideal candidate should be self-motivated, skilled in multitasking, and able to manage various aspects of individual philanthropy while collaborating with senior leadership and other key stakeholders to meet revenue goals.
Responsibilities:
Leadership and Team Management:
Lead and manage the Individual Philanthropy Team, ensuring efficient and effective fundraising operations.
Oversee the annual major gifts program and Giving Circles, focusing on donors contributing $1,000+.
Provide leadership support to the Board of Trustees Philanthropy Committee and senior leadership teams.
Major Gifts and Planned Giving:
Develop and implement strategies for individual giving, cultivating relationships with prospective donors.
Plan and manage major gift solicitation efforts, targeting contributions of $10,000 and above.
In collaboration with the Chief Philanthropy Officer, maintain and promote the organization's Planned Giving program, encouraging bequests and legacy gifts.
Fundraising and Donor Engagement:
Organize donor prospecting, cultivation, and stewardship events to expand individual donor contributions.
Coordinate efforts between the marketing team and individual philanthropy, ensuring aligned messaging in fundraising communications and direct mail campaigns.
Support board members and senior staff in soliciting gifts from major donors and planned giving prospects.
Administrative and Strategic Duties:
Plan and manage Individual Philanthropy Team operations, including budget management, report generation, and tracking of individual giving pipelines.
Provide input and oversight on marketing strategies for individual philanthropy, ensuring cohesive communication between departments.
Participate in cross-departmental meetings to enhance team integration and development.
Qualifications and Skills:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or equivalent experience.
CFRE or other philanthropy-related certifications preferred.
Minimum of three years of experience in fundraising, with a track record of success in securing major gifts and managing planned giving programs.
Strong leadership and team management experience, with the ability to motivate staff and volunteers.
Proven ability to work independently, managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strong organizational skills.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong attention to detail.
Experience with accounting, budgeting, and report generation.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Why This Role is Exciting:
This position offers a unique opportunity to lead the Individual Philanthropy Team during an exciting phase of growth, particularly as the organization enters the fourth quarter of a major capital campaign. The role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment but values work-life balance and enjoys wearing many hats. The ability to fundraise in a campaign setting, coupled with a deep understanding of San Diego's philanthropic landscape, will set the stage for success. You'll work alongside senior leadership (including the CEO, CFO, COO, VP of Philanthropy, and planned giving team) and collaborate with peer panels and other directors. With no set onsite schedule and flexibility in how donor tours and events are handled, this role offers the opportunity to think creatively while leading a vital function in the organization's development strategy.