Director of Development

Cincinnati Nature Center seeks an experienced fundraising professional to lead the Development Team and oversee all fundraising activities, including developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy that advances the organization’s mission. Success in this role requires close collaboration with the Board of Directors, Development Committee, Leadership Team, and internal staff teams.

Cincinnati Nature Center, founded in 1965, is a nationally recognized leader in environmental education and conservation with: 18,000+ member households, over 300,000 visitors per year, 125+ regular staff, 400+ dedicated volunteers, an $8MM operating budget, a $40MM endowment, and two properties in Clermont County east of Cincinnati totaling over 1,800 acres hosting nearly 20 miles of hiking trails.  For more information visit: www.CincyNature.org

The Director of Development will report to the Executive Director; working in collaboration with the Leadership Team comprised of Applied Learning, Conservation, Finance and Business Services, Operations and Engagement, Human Resource and Marketing departments. Direct reports in the Development Team include 2 Major Gifts Managers, a Campaign Coordinator, and an Associate Director of Development with 2 additional direct reports overseeing annual giving, grants, sponsorships and corporate relationships.

Candidates should have strong knowledge of fundraising strategies and must be able to demonstrate use of data analytics to support decision making. Ability to work with consultants is imperative.  A successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, enjoy hosting events, and a proven track record of soliciting and procuring gifts of all sizes while developing and strengthening relationships with new and existing donors.  Ability to succinctly communicate The Nature Center’s mission is a must as Cincinnati Nature Center as the Nature Center is in the silent phase of a substantial capital campaign.  Candidates must be committed to the Nature Center’s mission, personable, highly organized, articulate, and have a sense of humor.  A Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree is preferred and an excellent command of the English language is required.  Knowledge of and commitment to sustainable practices are preferred.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the position is responsible for strategic planning and oversight of the development team paying specific attention to providing strategies which promote engagement within the organization as well as with current donors, prospective donors, volunteers, and members. Work in a collaborative manner to provide specific direction to all development staff and serve as a member of the Leadership Team for the organization. Execute all activities with the highest standards for safety, customer service and in keeping with the Nature Center’s mission and core values.

Direct reports: Associate Director of Development (1) with 2 direct reports, Major Gift Officers (2), Capital Campaign Coordinator (1)

FUNDRAISING:

• Responsible for strategic oversight of all development and fundraising activities for the organization using data analytics to meet goals for operating income, capital campaigns and projects, endowment and planned giving. 
• Ensure department strategies and goals align with and achieve organizational goals.
• Work in close collaboration with the Executive Director and provide specific guidance to the Board Development Committee and fundraising team to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Ensure accurate, consistent, and timely reporting of fundraising reports to appropriate staff, volunteers, and board teams, communicating fundraising goals and achievements of annual campaigns, capital campaigns, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships and support, planned giving (including the Rowe Society), honor and memorial contributions (including Celebration Garden gifts), fundraising events, and other special projects as determined.
• Partner with the Executive Director to ensure fundraising goals are adjusted to achieve the future vision of the Nature Center.

LEADERSHIP TEAM: Serve on the Leadership Team with the Director of Operations and Engagement, Director of Finance and Business Services, Director of Conservation, Director of Human Resources, Director of Education, and the Executive Director.     

• Work with Leadership Team to provide input and general oversight to the operations of the organization.
• Participate in the development, implementation, and auditing of CNC’s strategic planning process.
• Personnel needs – select, train, develop, supervise, and evaluate personnel.  Ensure adherence to CNC personnel policies and procedures with support/guidance from the Executive Director and Director of Human Resources.
• Ensure effective communication between the Development team and other CNC teams.
• Develop and manage adherence to the department budget with support and guidance from the Director of Finance.  Ensure regular and timely reconciliation of income and expense reports with the finance department.
• Implement specific procedures and protocols with appropriate levels of approval to ensure consistent maintenance of all paper and electronic files.

Additional Job Responsibilities

• Community: Represent CNC in the community locally, regionally, and, if appropriate, nationally.
• Board of Directors: Serve as staff liaison to the Development Committee, Capital Campaign Committee, attend full Board meetings, recommend potential board prospects, and assist with new board member orientation.
• Attend community and organizational functions/events held on evenings or weekends.

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position.
This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

SKILLS

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including the use of Outlook
• Experience with Blackbaud products, specifically Altru is a plus
• Willingness to learn other software as needed
• Use of copy machines, postage machines, telephone, and other general office equipment
• Collaborative working style utilizing strong organizational and customer service skills

ABILITIES

• Be a passionate advocate for nature to articulate the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center
• Communicate effectively and professionally including oral, written, and listening methods
• Manage time and multiple priorities to meet deadlines
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external contacts
• Exhibit good judgement, honesty, integrity, and responsibility

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years senior leadership experience in nonprofit fundraising and development overseeing multiple direct reports

• This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity.

• Work is primarily performed on-site, indoors in an office environment and outdoors in the nature preserve. Occasional remote work acceptable.
• Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.

• Mission Support: Inspiring Conservation through personal experiences, education, and care for the land.
• Essential Qualities: Must enjoy nature, be energized by finding creative solutions, and possess a sense of humor, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Background Checks: Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of BCI and FBI background checks.  Background checks are conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state law, under code 5104.013.
• CPR & First Aid: Certification must be obtained and maintained throughout employment.
• Professional Learning, Development, and Required Training:  Employees shall engage in ongoing professional learning and development as well as shall complete ongoing required training relevant to safety, certification, and best business practices.
• Special Events: From time to time, employees shall be required to support special events which may fall outside of the normal work schedule including weekends/evenings. 

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