At Saving Innocence, we support and empower children and adults impacted by human trafficking by disrupting cycles of abuse and confronting exploitation through strategic partnerships and trauma-responsive education, advocacy, and systems of care. We are a passionate team with a culture centered around values that prioritize the well-being and empowerment of our team members. We foster a supportive environment where self-care is prioritized, providing resources and initiatives to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Empowerment is woven into the fabric of our organization by nurturing leadership, celebrating achievements, and offering development opportunities. Collaboration is key to our success, as we believe in harnessing our team members’ collective talents and expertise. We emphasize the importance of relational connections, building trust, and camaraderie to create a positive and inclusive workplace community. Through these guiding principles, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential! Check www.savinginnocence.org for more information about the organization.
The Director of Development is a strategic relationship-builder who collaborates with the Executive Director to create and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan. This role focuses on expanding revenue through diverse sources, including high-net-worth individuals, grants, events, partnerships, and corporate sponsorships. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated professional adept at cultivating and maintaining donor relationships, with a proven ability to secure partnerships and grow a robust donor base.
Reports to: Executive Director, Alan Smyth
Status: Exempt, Salaried, Full Time, 40 hours per week
QUALIFICATIONS
- Five+ years in fundraising or related fields with experience in leadership or management roles, with proven ability to fundraise a budget
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to inspire diverse audiences and articulate Saving Innocence’s work compellingly
- Extensive experience in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events, particularly galas
- Proven track record of personally securing attendance of major donors and high-value prospects at fundraising events
- Thorough understanding of federal and California state laws and regulations governing nonprofit fundraising
- Experience in ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations and filing required reports
- Proficiency in fundraising best practices, compliance requirements, and CRM systems
- Excellent organizational skills and experience in managing and developing teams
- High level of comfort working with diverse staff and constituents, with an inclusive approach
- Sound judgment and commitment to high professional ethical standards
- Ability to recognize when legal support is needed for complex compliance issues
- Flexibility to work non-standard hours as needed for events and programs
- Reliable, registered, and insured means of transportation
- Valid California driver’s license
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
SKILLS
- Exceptional relationship-building abilities with a proven track record of cultivating and soliciting major donors
- Strategic thinking and planning skills, particularly in developing comprehensive fundraising strategies
- Strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and motivate teams
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Creative problem-solving skills and a proactive, self-starter attitude
- Superior written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities
- Proficiency in crafting compelling fundraising narratives and proposals
- Knowledge of Request for Proposal (RFP) Submissions
- Strong analytical skills for interpreting fundraising data and donor trends
- Expertise in donor database management and fundraising software (e.g., Virtuous CRM)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to adapt to new technological platforms
- Comfort with Mac operating systems
- Demonstrated ability to organize and execute large-scale fundraising events
- Keen attention to detail, especially in maintaining legal and ethical compliance in fundraising activities
- Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic nonprofit environment
- Cultural competence and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles
- Ability to make persuasive funding requests ("the ask") with confidence and tact
- Openness to feedback and continuous professional development (coachable)
- Familiarity with digital fundraising strategies and social media platforms for donor engagement
The ideal candidate will be exceptional at cultivating donor relationships, loves working with a team and independently, and is up for a challenging and fulfilling position! Please submit your resume with a thoughtful cover letter to include why you want to join the Saving Innocence team. The cover letter is required to help us get to know you better understand your interest in working at Saving Innocence and how we can support you in your career goals. Submissions without a cover letter will not be considered until it’s received.