Spraggins Recruiting
Director of Philanthropy
Summary: Responsible for leading fundraising activities, donor engagement, communications, and marketing strategies to ensure long-term financial sustainability. This role cultivates donor and community support, manages a portfolio of prospects, inspires transformational giving, and oversees staff to help advance the organizations mission.
Compensation/Benefits/Perks:
Competitive Compensation Package
Sign-on bonus eligibility
Excellent Benefits Package
Growth Potential
Location: Plymouth, Michigan
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Develop and execute a comprehensive philanthropy strategy to grow revenue and expand donor engagement.
Lead all fundraising initiatives: sponsorships, giving campaigns, planned giving, major gifts, donor research, and events.
Pursue and manage foundation and corporate grant opportunities (prospecting, proposals, and reporting) in collaboration with program staff.
Build sustainable systems for donor stewardship, CRM management, and gift acknowledgements.
Oversee donor communications, newsletters, annual reports, and digital fundraising strategies.
Represent First Step at donor meetings, check presentations, tours, and community events.
Mentor philanthropy staff, foster collaboration, and set clear performance goals.
Partner with the Board and fundraising committee to strengthen their fundraising leadership.
First 90 days: Meet with board members to develop individual philanthropy plans; assess staff and resources.
First year: Implement philanthropy strategy, secure 3+ major gifts ($100,000+), identify 50 top prospects, complete 2 major asks/month, support agency fundraising goal.
Education/Experience/Qualifications/Skills:
Bachelors degree in relevant discipline preferred; minimum 5 years of progressive fundraising experience including leadership roles.
Proven success in securing significant gifts and corporate sponsorships.
Experience with donor acquisition and communications, grant management, events, CRM/donor databases, board and volunteer fundraising committees.
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and leadership skills.
Commitment to cultural humility and mission-driven philanthropy.
Flexible schedule with some evenings/weekends; proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially excel).
Valid Michigan drivers license, current insurance, and reliable transportation required
Bilingual skills and the capacity to lift up to 30 pounds are a plus.