Director of Development

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and/or a minimum of seven years of related experience in fundraising, business development, and/or marketing. Strong interpersonal, verbal, written, and computer skills required. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships with current and prospective donors. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and donor management systems. Ability to manage multiple priorities and interact effectively with the public. Valid New York State driver's license required.

Physical Requirements

This position operates primarily in a typical office environment but may include exposure to varying temperatures within a warehouse setting. The role requires extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, speaking, listening, visual concentration, writing, and computer use. The employee will have routine opportunities to change physical position or adjust eye focus. Occasional lifting, moving, and delivery of boxes is required; lifting should not exceed 30 pounds.

General Description

The Director of Development assists in the planning, development, and execution of fundraising strategies, with a focus on donor relations and revenue growth. This role provides leadership within the Development Department, collaborates across teams, and effectively communicates the impact of fundraising efforts to internal and external stakeholders. The Director of Development is committed to raising community awareness, building philanthropic support, and utilizing data and research to advance the Food Bank's vision of a hunger-free community.

Position Summary

Fundraising

• Plays a pivotal role in collaboration with the Development Team and Food Bank leadership to design and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies.
• Cultivates donor relationships and ensures thoughtful stewardship of gifts.
• Collaborates with departmental team members to identify philanthropic priorities and key areas of focus.
• Identifies and pursues diverse funding streams, including individual donors, foundations, corporations, regional employers, and public-sector partners.
• Monitors and evaluates fundraising activities to ensure performance goals are met.
• Stays informed of fundraising trends, particularly within food banking and the Feeding America network.

Donor Cultivation

• Cultivates and maintains strong relationships with major gift donors and corporate sponsors.
• Develops personalized engagement and stewardship strategies to deepen donor involvement and long-term commitment.
• Identifies, manages, and grows a portfolio of new major donors and corporate gift partners.
• Utilizes fundraising software to track donor interactions, maintain accurate records, and generate reports for analysis.

Special Events

• Works closely with the Special Events team to execute fundraising events that meet organizational goals.
• Collaborates with event committee members to secure sponsorships and donations.
• Pursues in-kind contributions to maximize net event revenue.

Community Relations

• Represents the Food Bank at meetings, community events, and networking opportunities as directed by leadership.
• Builds and strengthens relationships with businesses, organizations, public officials, and community partners to expand awareness and support.

TeamworkCollaboration

• Fosters a collaborative, results-driven culture within the Development Department.
• Works cross-functionally with other departments to align development strategies with organizational and strategic plan objectives.
• Clearly communicates the impact of fundraising efforts to internal and external audiences.

Other Duties

• Maintains a clean and safe workspace and follows all safety standards and procedures.
• Works independently and collaboratively in support of the Food Bank's mission.
• Adheres to the Food Bank's Employee Code of Conduct.
• Performs other duties as necessary to meet organizational needs.

Disclaimer: The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed in this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

The Regional Food Bank is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, creed (religion), color, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, age, disability, genetic information, marital status or domestic violence victim status and other characteristics protected by law.