Philanthropy Director

YMCA
How to Apply
Apply Online
Resumes Accepted Until
Outdoor lovers...close to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Employee Medical/Dental paid by the Y.  12% retirement paid once vested.
Job Description

The Philanthropy Director is responsible for assisting the CEO in developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the mission and long-term sustainability of the organization. This role leads to major gift cultivation, donor stewardship, planned giving, and foundation and corporate partnership development.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification preferred.
  • 7+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, including major gifts.
  • Proven success in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
  • Knowledge of fundraising software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Donor Perfect).
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently.

Preferred Skills:

  • Passion for the organization’s mission.
  • Experience with capital campaigns or endowment building.
  • Knowledge of IRS regulations and ethical fundraising standards.
Essential Functions

Fundraising Strategy & Leadership

  • Develop and execute a multi-year strategic plan to grow philanthropic revenue.
  • Lead major gifts, annual giving, planned to give, and capital campaign efforts.
  • Identify new revenue opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission and goals.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
  • Oversee donor recognition and stewardship programs to maintain high donor engagement.
  • Prepare impact reports and coordinate donor events.

Grant Management

  • Identify prospective grants and oversee the grant proposal and reporting process.
  • Collaborate with program staff to ensure accurate and timely submissions.

Team Leadership

  • Assist CEO in building a culture of philanthropy within the organization by collaborating with board members and leadership.
     

Communications & Reporting

  • Work with marketing and communications teams to align messaging with fundraising goals.
  • Report regularly to CEO and Board on fundraising performance and donor pipeline.