Development Director
Seattle, WA, United States
Philosophy Learning and Teaching Organization (PLATO) is seeking a part-time Development Director to join our team. This is a fully remote position, averaging 10 hours a week, to begin September 1, 2024.
Organization Overview: PLATO is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing young people’s curiosity, critical thinking, and understanding of diverse viewpoints through philosophy and ethics programs for students and educators. With a range of educational initiatives designed to stimulate critical thinking and ethical reasoning for elementary, middle, and high school students, PLATO is committed to expanding the impact and accessibility of philosophy education.
Job Overview: The Development Director is a pivotal position responsible for leading all fundraising activities to support and expand the organization’s programs. As the sole development position within the organization, the Director will need to be highly proactive and capable of wearing multiple hats, working closely with the Executive Director and an active Board of Directors, with limited marketing support. This role is ideal for a dynamic individual with a passion for education and philosophy, ready to drive growth and increase funding through innovative fundraising strategies. The Development Director reports to the Executive Director.
Job Responsibilities:
Fundraising
Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan that includes major gifts, annual fund, grants, and institutional support.
Identify, cultivate, and nurture relationships with existing and potential donors, including individuals, corporations, universities, and foundations.
Personally manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects.
Donor Relations
Enhance and maintain effective communication channels with donors through regular updates, acknowledgments, and engagement opportunities.
Develop strategies to initiate and strengthen donor relationships and encourage higher levels of support.
Event Planning
Lead the planning and implementation of fundraising and donor stewardship events, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to ensure success.
Leadership and Collaboration
Work directly with the Executive Director, who has an active role in fundraising, to align efforts and maximize impact.
Collaborate with a social media specialist and other staff to leverage marketing and communication tools for fundraising purposes.
Engage with the Board of Directors to leverage their networks and influence in fundraising initiatives.
Work closely with PLATO’s staff and various board and committee members.
Strategic Planning
Collaborate with leadership to align fundraising strategies with the organization’s goals and strategic plan.
Contribute to organizational planning and budgeting processes.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree.
Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation.
At least two years of professional fundraising experience in a nonprofit environment, with proven success in donor cultivation and major gift fundraising.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; adept at building relationships with different stakeholders.
Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team within a small organization.
High energy, enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to PLATO’s mission of promoting philosophy education.