Director of Development

The Director of Development (DOD) leads the planning and implementation of a multi-year, comprehensive fundraising program to increase philanthropic revenue from individuals, corporations and foundations to support the Library’s mission and vision.  The person in this position will strengthen and facilitate relationships with current and future supporters, solicit contributions on behalf of the organization, and expand a community of philanthropic investors who share a belief in the important role of the Wellesley Free Library.  In addition, the person in this position will work collaboratively with staff and volunteer leadership to leverage increased philanthropic support.

Candidates should be experienced fundraising managers who have a track record of building comprehensive fundraising programs, working in partnership with staff and experienced volunteer teams and closing major gifts.

The Library Foundation Board comprises up to 15 volunteer directors with a diverse set of skills and perspectives.  The Board is led by, and the Director of Development is accountable to, an executive committee of the President, Vice President, Clerk, and Treasurer. 

Board members participate in a number of subcommittees, which may be associated with a specific fundraising or related activity and include active participation in the work.  Coordinating the activity of these committees are key functions of the DoD.  

The Director of Development must be an experienced development leader with demonstrated expertise in a broad range of areas including working with high net worth donors, major gifts, annual campaigns and development planning.

The following additional qualifications are required: 

•       Ability to work independently required. Preferred candidates will be able to prioritize workflow, meet deadlines, and manage details and will be able to delegate tasks to junior Development staff and volunteers when appropriate.

•       Experience with a multitude of development strategies is recommended, including designing and implementing successful annual appeal campaigns, personally soliciting donors, promoting the planned giving program, and organizing Galas or similar events is strongly preferred.

•       Experience working with high net worth donors and major gift initiatives.

•       Demonstrated ability to work effectively with and quickly gain the respect and support of various constituencies, including the Library Foundation Board, Library Trustees, and staff members, donors, and volunteer and civic leaders.

•       Working knowledge of Bloomerang fundraising software preferred, spreadsheet analysis and database management required.

•       Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.

•       Excellent organizational skills.

•       Experience with capital campaign execution strongly preferred.

•       Minimum of 5 years non-profit fundraising experience.

•       Baccalaureate degree.  Advanced degree preferred.
The Director of Development leads all aspects of fundraising strategies and operations for the Library Foundation.  In addition to the development management and execution responsibilities described in this position description, the DoD also will support the preparation and management of the board meetings, development and management of the budget and coordination of all related administrative functions (records, payment systems, pledge confirmation documentation, contracts, etc).

The DoD leads on new prospect identification, donor stewardship, and works closely with key constituencies towards meeting the goals of the board.  The DoD will work closely with other key Library stakeholders including the Library Director, the publicly-elected Library Board of Trustees and the Friends of the Wellesley Free Library.

Development

•       Actively cultivates prospects and stewards and solicits donors.

•       Directs all volunteer activities.

•       Identifies new individual, corporate and foundation prospects.

•       Implements and oversees all fundraising activities, working closely with the Board. This includes annual appeals, individual and capital campaigns, program-related solicitations and stewardship events.

•       Maintains strong relations with Executive Committee, Board, donors, Library Director, Library Trustees and key volunteer leaders. Understands working within complex organizations.

•       Maintains strong networking ties to the development community and stays current on best practices.

•       Coordinates and delegates work for any junior associate in the development office.

•       Provides data and follow-up on stewardship events; reports to Board on progress toward fundraising goals.

Administrative

•       Oversees daily operations of the Development Office including database management, prompt gift acknowledgment, related administrative responsibilities (payment systems, pledge documentation, records, contracts) and other duties as necessary.  

•       Develops annual expense budget of the development office; tracks development expenses throughout the budget year.

Board assistance

•       Leverages board members to support their outreach and fundraising efforts to maximize philanthropic support for the Library.

•       Assists the Library Foundation Board and Library Trustees to identify, develop and recruit potential directors and volunteers for the Library Foundation.

•       Enlists directors and outside volunteers to serve on subcommittees.  Coordinates and manage the activities of subcommittees to achieve stated goals.

•       Provides board education on best practices in development.

•       Coordinates with the Library Director to keep Directors current on Library activities, Trustee board meetings and pertinent Town issues. Understands Library governance.

•       Onboards new directors, provides educational materials about the Library Foundation and the Library.

•       Provides support as needed to the Library Foundation Board with meeting logistics, printing, and sundry tasks.