New Futures seeks a capable, professional, and enthusiastic Director of Development and Communications to lead the organization’s fundraising and external communications strategies and initiatives. New Futures is in a phase of ambitious growth, and the Director of Development and Communications will be afforded ample occasion to think creatively and to apply his or her experience and talents in a fast-paced, stimulating environment. The Director of Development and Communications will report directly to, and work closely with, the New Futures Executive Director and other Team members, and often will work directly with the New Futures Board of Directors.
This is an ideal opportunity for an individual who is:
A skilled writer, as funding proposal and report writing will be chief among the Director’s responsibilities;
An accomplished, intentional, and organized project manager;
Familiar with current communications, marketing, and branding best practices; and
Independent and capable of performing his or her job functions with limited supervision.
JOB FUNCTIONS
Development/Fundraising
While the Director will maintain both development and communications responsibilities, revenue generation will be the Director’s paramount priority.
Work closely with the Executive Director, Board Development Committee, and Program and Operations Team members to assess fundraising needs as determined by organizational and programmatic strategic plan goals, annual plan priorities, and operating needs
Research, prepare, and submit grant proposals and reports to existing and potential funders
Develop, supervise, and implement all resource development programs and projects, including: foundation and corporate grants; high-net worth (HNW) individual donations and multi-year major gifts; government funding; mail and online donations; special events, including New Futures’ Annual Benefit and other major events; and mailed appeals to existing and potential donors, including New Futures’ Annual Fall/Winter Appeal
Research grant opportunities toward expanding New Futures’ funding pipeline
Oversee the efficient and effective implementation of data management systems and fundraising records for all fundraising activities, primarily through the use of New Futures’ donor database
Cultivate and maintain new and existing funding relationships, and manage the involvement of the Executive Director and Board members in the solicitation and donor stewardship processes
Communications/Marketing
Prepare and publish compelling communications materials for consumption by donors and other stakeholders – including the New Futures Annual Report; regular electronic newsletters; brochures; one- and multi-page Program summaries customized to various audiences; talking points for the Executive Director and Board members; and website content
Manage and maintain New Futures’ social media accounts (e.g., Facebook and Twitter), and conceive and implement a strategy for the creative and productive use of such media toward communicating with donors and other stakeholders and toward raising New Futures’ DC Metro Area and broader community profile
Manage and maintain, and efficiently and effectively utilize, New Futures’ communications database, Constant Contact (e.g., for use in email “blasts” of newsletters and other communications materials)
Supervise New Futures’ Operations Coordinator in the management of event planning and related materials preparation and logistical coordination (including identifying and inviting the participation of honorees, panel moderators, spokespersons, and other event attendees)
Monitor and update New Futures’ website as necessary, and coordinate with Team members on website content revisions and with outside vendors on website technical adjustments
Internal Communications and Board of Directors Support
Provide updates and make presentations to the Board of Directors regarding development and communications programs, strategies, and results
Participate in Board meetings, Development Committee meetings, and other key organizational functions as required
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor’s degree required; graduate degree a plus
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Four or more years of nonprofit or applicable business experience, with at least three years of demonstrated success in fundraising and grant proposal and report writing (experience with event planning/implementation and marketing a plus)
Communications, marketing, and branding skills and experience
Excellent writing skills
Excellent project management skills, with the ability to anticipate logistical and other challenges in a deadline-intensive and fast-paced environment
Very organized and attentive to detail, with the ability to prioritize effectively
Motivated and self-directed, with the ability to work independently – while at the same time keeping the Executive Director apprised of any special requirements or challenges
Excellent oral and interpersonal communications, organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
Versatile, entrepreneurial, agile, creative, and resourceful – with a “can-do/will-do” attitude and a strong work ethic
A facility with donor database and other software use and management; and with social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) as fundraising, communications, and marketing tools
The ability to portray programmatic results and outcomes (i.e., in fundraising and communications materials) in a creative, crisp, and compelling manner
The ability to recognize development/fundraising opportunities and proactively pursue them, especially in the context of specifically-identified organizational needs
A team player approach to work and professional relationships – accessible and reliable, with a willingness to work collaboratively with New Futures’ Executive Director, other Team members, Board members, and external stakeholders, and generally to “pitch in” as needed
The ability to maintain grace (and flexibility) under pressure, while meeting multiple concurrent deadlines
A desire for straightforward, transparent communication, and an appreciation of (and a willingness to contribute to) a “feedback” organizational culture
A sense of humor
ABOUT NEW FUTURES
New Futures’ mission is to create educational opportunities for rewarding careers. We provide a comprehensive, practical-yet-innovative program of scholarships, career education, and tailored, ongoing support to low-income DC Metro Area young people pursuing primarily shorter-term post-secondary educational opportunities that lead quickly and inexpensively to in-demand, professionally-satisfying, and well-paying jobs. (www.newfuturesdc.org)
LOCATION
Washington, DC, Metro Area
New Futures office address: 805 15th Street, NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20005
The Director will be afforded the opportunity to work from home or other locations as desired, with the understanding that presence in New Futures’ office occasionally will be required.
How to apply
Please submit (1) your résumé and (2) a cover letter explaining why you are interested in and qualified for the Director of Development and Communications position.
Applications are to be submitted by email only to jobs@newfuturesdc.org; please specifically state “Director of Development and Communications” in the subject line of your email.
New Futures is an equal opportunity employer.
No phone calls, please.