Deadline: Open until filled.
American Rivers is searching for a Vice President of Resource Development to lead their fundraising programs. Founded in 1973, American Rivers is the leading national river conservation organization dedicated to protecting and restoring healthy rivers for the benefit of people, wildlife and nature. American Rivers has over 65,000 supporters nationwide, with staff in Washington, DC (National Headquarters) and the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, Intermountain West, California and Northwest field offices.
The organization has recently charted a new strategic direction that puts them at the center of one of the most vital issues of our time- helping human and natural communities prepare for the impacts of a changing climate on the most precious of all resources, water. Healthy rivers and streams provide resilience in the face of increasing floods, droughts, water pollution and over-tapped water supplies. By protecting critical landscapes, decreasing wasteful water use, and adopting "green" infrastructure solutions that work with nature, communities will be able to sustain their health, wealth, and quality of life.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Vice President for Resource Development provides leadership and guidance for annual operating, capacity-building, project and capital fundraising. He/she leads a committed team of eight development professionals in achieving the fundraising objectives for the organization. The Vice President reports to the President and works closely with other departments, regional staff, and Board members. This position also serves as a liaison and resource to the Board of Directors' Development Committee.
The Vice President for Resource Development must be a skilled manager, capable of directing, motivating, and developing staff in addition to advancing a sustainable and innovative philanthropic program to support a growing entrepreneurial organization. This person should have a demonstrated track record in a broad range of fundraising strategies including major donor solicitation, private and family foundations, planned giving, capital campaigns, and fundraising events. Because so much of what this person will do involves building and maintaining trust with staff, donors and external stakeholders, the Vice President for Resource Development must possess the presence, judgment and ability to operate effectively and professionally with a wide cross section of public, private and philanthropic leaders.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Vice President provides critical leadership, management and coordination of American Rivers' overall fundraising program. This includes ensuring that annual and long term major donor, planned giving, foundation and special event fundraising goals are met.
Provide leadership and support to the Board of Directors as they deepen their commitment to and involvement in development efforts. Help board members identify, cultivate, and solicit donors, and serve as a staff liaison to the Board Development Committee.
Provide strategic development advice to the President, senior management, and program staff and identify and resolve fundraising challenges.
Lead development and testing of new strategies for achieving a sustainable annual operating funding base (with an emphasis on unrestricted gifts).
Lead, mentor, review and formally evaluate development staff performance to ensure functional excellence. Manage resources, including budgets and staff time, in an efficient and effective way.
Strengthen the major gifts program infrastructure to support an expanded program including database and technology operations and prospect research.
Lead exploration and development of strategies and plans for raising substantial amounts of growth capital in future years, including private "venture" philanthropy and government grants.
Prepare fund-raising reports and analyses for President and key Board committees.
Lead a team of eight development professionals in Washington, DC and in the regions. Manage the President's and Executive Team's involvement in fundraising.
Contribute to organizational excellence as a member of the Executive Team.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree and at least 10 years of fundraising experience and a demonstrated track record of success with major donors, private and family foundations, and volunteer leadership management.
Must be a skilled leader, capable of directing, motivating, and inspiring board and staff.
High energy level, flexible, self-motivated, and self-confident.
Articulate with strong oral and written communications skills.
Strategic thinker; highly organized and able to meet deadlines and budgets.
Strong time, budget, and organizational management skills, including the capacity to work on several projects simultaneously.
Familiarity with environmental/conservation funding community is highly preferred.
Ability and willingness to travel. Estimate 15% to 20%.
OTHER NOTES
This is an excellent career position offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference on one of the critical missions of our time. American Rivers provides a competitive compensation plan and excellent benefits. Please visit their website (www.AmericanRivers.org.) for additional information.
If you are interested in this position, please email your resume and cover letter to:
Tom Damewood
Owner / Manager
Management Recruiters- Mid Hudson Valley
845-227-3161