Director of Development & Partnerships

About YWCA NENY

Since its beginning in 1888, YWCA NENY has been a constant innovator in providing program and services to meet the changing needs of the community. It is the mission of YWCA NENY to eliminate racism, and empower women while promoting peace, justice, dignity, and freedom for all. YWCA NENY encourages individuals from all walks of life, with the necessary skills and abilities, to apply for positions they feel qualified for.

Position Summary:

The Director of Development and Partnerships is a mission-driven, strategic leader responsible for advancing the YWCA NENY's fundraising, community engagement, and program support efforts. This role oversees the development team, implements comprehensive fundraising strategies, and cultivates relationships with donors, businesses, and community partners to achieve an annual fundraising goal of $500,000. The Director plays a vital role in strengthening the organization's visibility and financial sustainability through donor stewardship, events, and advocacy for the YWCA's mission and programs.

This position requires flexibility in work schedule, including some evenings and weekends for events and community engagements.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes, supervise development staff and volunteers.

FLSA Category: Full-time, Exempt

Reports to: CEO

Compensation: $75,000 to $83,000 Annually

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Fund Development & Leadership

Partner with the CEO, Board of Directors, and staff to develop and implement short- and long-term fundraising strategies aligned with the organization's mission and values.

Lead the development team in executing a comprehensive fundraising plan, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, grants, events, and major gifts.

Personally manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects to meet quarterly and annual fundraising goals.

Maintain accurate donor data and reporting using the organization's CRM to guide engagement and retention strategies.

Ensure compliance with all fundraising regulations, ethical standards, and financial accountability practices in coordination with the CFO. Community Engagement & Representation

Serve as a visible ambassador for YWCA NENY at community events, fundraisers, and speaking engagements to increase awareness and strengthen partnerships.

Build relationships with donors, funders, businesses, and community leaders to advance organizational goals.

Work closely with the Marketing and Communications Specialist to develop compelling campaigns, appeals, and press releases that highlight the impact of YWCA NENY's programs. Events & Stewardship

Lead the planning and execution of signature fundraising events, ensuring mission alignment, donor engagement, and financial success.

Oversee solicitation of in-kind donations, sponsorships, and auction items to support fundraising events.

Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure event logistics, promotion, and follow-up are well-coordinated. Team Leadership & Collaboration

Supervise and mentor development staff, including the Development Assistant and Communications Specialist, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented culture.

Partner with program directors and coordinators to stay informed about program needs, funding gaps, and impact stories to strengthen donor communications.

Provide regular updates to the Board of Directors on fundraising progress and engage board members in development efforts and annual giving.

Prepare the annual report with input from the Communications Specialist, Program Directors, and CEO. Operations & Compliance

Manage donor-advised funds, corporate matching gifts, and bequests, ensuring proper documentation and acknowledgment.

Review and track department expenses, process vendor payments, and support financial reporting to the CFO.

Uphold the organization's values of inclusivity, integrity, and transparency in all development practices.

Other duties as assigned. Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.

Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in fundraising and team management.

Demonstrated success in securing major gifts, sponsorships, and diversified funding sources.

Strong communication and public speaking skills, with the ability to inspire donors and represent the mission effectively.

Excellent organizational, strategic planning, and relationship management skills.

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, for events and community engagements. Physical requirements:

Lift up to 25 pounds

Frequent sitting, standing, bending, speaking, walking.

Noise level can be loud at times.

Driving required. Other requirements:

Clean NYS Driver's license, Traffic Abstract and Defensive driving certificate required upon hiring.

All role-required checks

Commitment to Diversity