POSITION SUMMARY
The Vice President of Philanthropy (VP) will manage PCF’s fundraising and external engagement strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability and mission impact. In addition to cultivating donor relationships, securing philanthropic gifts, overseeing grant writing, and leading fundraising events and campaigns, this role provides strategic leadership to PCF’s marketing and communications function, ensuring consistent mission-driven messaging and strong public visibility. The VP will have an annual fundraising goal of $5 million in realized gifts.
As a member of the senior leadership team, the VP aligns resource development with organizational goals, expands the donor base, and enhances PCF’s reputation and community impact. The role also collaborates closely with the Board of Directors to activate their networks, support fundraising initiatives, and advance the foundation’s strategic objectives. The VP will lead, mentor, and inspire the PCF development team, including three direct reports: Director of Marketing & Communications, Development Manager, and Gift & Operations Associate.
Year One Priorities:
- Immerse yourself in the rich history and evolution of PCF, building meaningful relationships with the board, staff, donors, and stakeholders.
- Design and implement innovative philanthropic and marketing/communications strategies as we aim to diversify and expand our donor base to support increased grantmaking.
- Champion a culture of collaboration, communication, inclusivity, and continuous growth.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes various philanthropic gifts, grants, events, and annual giving to support the PCF’s mission and strategic goals.
- Develop and execute personalized donor engagement plans using a structured moves management approach to cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships, driving sustained and increased giving.
- Lead and oversee the preparation of grant proposals and funding applications, ensuring timely submissions and alignment with funder priorities.
- Provide strategic oversight of PCF’s marketing and communications efforts, ensuring alignment with fundraising goals, consistent brand messaging, and compelling outreach that engages donors and elevates the foundation’s public profile.
- Serve as a liaison with estate planning attorneys, CPAs, CFPs, trust departments, wealth managers, stockbrokers, and other advisors, communicating the benefits of utilizing PCF.
- Manage, mentor, and support direct reports with a keen focus on their professional growth, development, and performance.
- Manage and analyze development data and donor databases to track progress, inform strategy, and ensure accurate reporting.
- Represent PCF at public events and with external stakeholders to enhance visibility and build strategic partnerships.
- Participates in ongoing training and professional development, including staying well-informed of industry trends.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Mission Alignment: Deep commitment to PCF’s mission of inspiring generosity and mobilizing community resources for current and future needs. Understands the legacy of PCF and brings a strong connection to Pasadena and the surrounding communities.
- Fundraising Expertise: 7–10+ years of progressive development experience, including major gift cultivation, campaign strategy, and donor stewardship; CFRE preferred.
- Planned & Legacy Giving: Demonstrated expertise in estate planning and planned giving vehicles (DAFs, CRTs, bequests); strong understanding of investment strategies and tax-advantaged tools for philanthropy.
- Leadership & Management: 5+ years of supervisory experience with a proven ability to lead, mentor, and build inclusive, high-performing teams.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Innovative and proactive in identifying funding opportunities, forming strategic donor relationships, and driving long-term philanthropic growth.
Sector Experience: Prior work with community foundations or nonprofit development teams strongly preferred. - Marketing & Branding Awareness: Experience aligning communications efforts with organizational priorities to amplify mission, brand, and philanthropic initiatives.
Skills & Attributes:
- Strategic Communicator: Exceptional verbal and written communication; persuasive in donor communications, marketing collateral, and grant writing; able to convey complex concepts with clarity and inspiration.
- Marketing & Communications: Skilled in creating compelling content, managing brand voice, and implementing integrated marketing strategies across digital, print, and social media channels to support fundraising and engagement goals.
- Interpersonal Excellence: Empathetic, diplomatic, and adept at building trust and inspiring confidence among diverse stakeholders.
- Fundraising Execution: Proven success in managing donor pipelines, securing a range of philanthropic gifts, and leading events that build engagement and revenue.
- Technology Proficiency: Skilled in CRM systems (e.g., Foundant, Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge); proficient with Microsoft Teams, AI tools, web analytics, and digital marketing platforms.
- Financial & Regulatory Acumen: Capable of interpreting and communicating IRS regulations, charitable giving rules, and investment concepts to donors and stakeholders.
- Collaborative Orientation: Strong team player who thrives in cross-functional environments and works well with Boards and organizational leadership.