Director of Advancement

THE MIDNIGHT MISSIONDIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT 

ABOUT THE MIDNIGHT MISSION 

Since 1914, The Midnight Mission has been a beacon of hope for those experiencing drug & alcohol abuse and homelessness in Los Angeles. Dedicated to providing a path to self-sufficiency, The Midnight Mission offers a comprehensive approach to help people regain their independence, providing basic necessities, educational and workforce development programs, and addiction recovery services. Serving thousands of individuals each year, the organization strives to break the cycle of poverty and despair through care, compassion, and accountability. With two facilities located in Southern California (Los Angeles & South Bay), The Midnight Mission continues to enhance and expand services to reach even more individuals in need.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Midnight Mission is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Advancement. This critical leadership role is responsible for overseeing and cultivating the Advancement team, which includes a robust staff managing all facets of fundraising and public communications. The Director of Advancement will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to implement strategic initiatives, enhance donor engagement, and set the stage for sustainable growth, laying the groundwork for future initiatives. 

The Director of Advancement role calls for a creative and collaborative leader to synchronize and strategically develop all aspects of resource development. With a strong passion for the organization’s mission, the Director of Advancement is the chief cultivator, strategically developing the external communications and articulating the vision, strategies, and accomplishments to donors and stakeholders. The ideal candidate is a seasoned fundraiser with knowledge of the full suite of fundraising skills, a passion for mentoring and building a team, and a keen instinct for nonprofit marketing and communications.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Strategy & Implementation

• Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet or exceed annual and long-term revenue goals.
• Oversee all aspects of fundraising, including individual philanthropy, major and mid-level gifts, annual fund campaigns, legacy gifting, direct marketing, institutional giving, municipal funds, grants, corporate relations, and gift-in-kind donations.
• Establish short and long-range goals for restricted and unrestricted funding sources.
• Deeply understand The Midnight Mission's work and programmatic needs and build relationships with community partners to support fundraising efficacy.
• Prepare and manage the Advancement department’s budget, ensuring cost-effective operations and maximum ROI.
• Track and report on fundraising progress, providing regular updates to the executive leadership team and Board of Directors.
• Contribute to the strategic planning process, ensuring alignment of fundraising goals with The Midnight Mission’s overall mission and objectives.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for innovation and growth within the Advancement department.

Staff Management

• Lead, mentor, and manage the Advancement team, fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment.
• Ensure effective coordination and integration of all fundraising and communication efforts across the organization.
• Cultivate a culture that embraces innovation, empowering staff by providing clear objectives, direction, and prioritization of fundraising goals and timelines.
• Ensure professional accountability through clear expectations, positive and constructive feedback, and formal performance reviews.

Donor Cultivation, Communications & Marketing

• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy to enhance public awareness of The Midnight Mission’s programs and impact.
• Oversee content creation and distribution through social media, the web, email marketing, press releases, and other formats.
• Cultivate and steward strong relationships with existing and potential donors, ensuring consistent and personalized engagement.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, representing The Midnight Mission at events and to key stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in fund development required.
• Bachelor's degree in business, philanthropy, marketing, communications, or any combination of academic education, professional training or work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.
• Proficiency in using fundraising and CRM software, social media platforms, and other digital communication tools.
• Ability to use interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with potential funders, Board members, and internal and external stakeholders.
• Track record of building individual and major gift programs: identifying prospects, cultivating new donor relationships, and closing major and corporate gift programs.
• Comprehensive staff management skills, including experience building, mentoring, and coaching a team of high-performing professionals, with a commitment to the continuous education and training of the development team.
• In-depth and current knowledge of fundraising practices and procedures, with a strong understanding of donor management systems.
• Experience in producing successful and meaningful special events.
• Proven experience fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion and belonging.
• Experience working with a volunteer-driven, community-based organization and a deep passion for the mission and values of The Midnight Mission.
• Outstanding written and oral communications skills.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The salary range for the Director of Advancement is $140,000 – $165,000, commensurate with experience. The role is located in Los Angeles in the Skid Row neighborhood and will be in-person for the first 6-12 months, with the option for hybrid schedule in the future. The Midnight Mission offers a generous benefits package including vacation and sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, vision, 401K contributions, life insurance, accident insurance, long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and more.

The Midnight Mission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Midnight Mission does not discriminate against any person because of race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, political affiliation or citizenship. All qualified applicants, including minorities and women, are encouraged to apply.