Director of Development

PACER Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of children and young adults with disabilities through parent training and advocacy, assistive technology, and social inclusion programs. Established in 1977, PACER employs approximately 50 staff and helps thousands of families annually access services for their children by providing individualized support, training, and information services, as well as extensive online resources. Role Summary At PACER Center, we work every day to help children and young adults with disabilities, and their families unlock the doors to education, technology, and services that help those children live full and joyful lives. The person who joins us as our Director of Development will be the primary fundraiser for the organization, responsible for leading long‑range strategies required to build a strong culture of philanthropy. The Director of Development will lead the development team in planning, managing, and implementing fund development strategies for the organization. These include corporate and individual giving, planned giving, and event and grant revenue. The Director of Development will function in a highly visible externally facing role. They will represent the organization while stewarding donors and be responsible for making solicitations and prospecting new donors. A note on strategic direction PACER is committed to building a more diversified and resilient funding base. While grants have historically played an important role in our financial model, our goal is to grow individual giving, corporate partnerships, and recurring donor revenue so that no single funding source represents an outsized share of our budget. The Director of Development will be a key driver of this work, helping PACER move toward greater philanthropic independence over the next three to five years. Responsibilities and Roles Understand and promote the mission, purpose, and priorities of the organization. Personally identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of current and potential donors, including foundations, corporations, and individuals. Recommend annual monetary goals and budgets according to short‑ and long‑term goals. Recommend fundraising strategies and objectives for the organization, setting one‑year, three‑year, and longer‑term goals. Track, analyze, and report fundraising metrics and progress to the Executive Director and board on a regular basis. Work with the board members, board development committee, and annual gala committee to increase engagement in fundraising efforts. In collaboration with the marketing team, produce relevant and informative fundraising literature for the promotion of events and financial engagement opportunities, including digital and multi‑channel campaigns. Manage and grow a recurring/sustaining donor program to build long‑term revenue stability. Stay current on local and national philanthropic trends and apply that knowledge to strengthen and adapt fundraising strategy. Oversee the fundraising process and work with Director of Finance to maintain fundraising and disbursement records. Comply with all reporting requirements and regulations in order to fulfill commitment to accountability and demonstrate transparency, including reporting required for grants. Plan fundraising events that effectively communicate the purposes of the organization and reach established goals. Communicate fundraising goals and progress internally across departments to foster a shared culture of philanthropy. Perform other related duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities Provide oversight of financial development staff through the selection, development, motivation, and evaluation of financial development team members; currently three individuals. Support career development, identifying opportunities for training and skill building within budget limits. Train and mentor development staff on fundraising best practices, tools, and organizational priorities. Background and Skills The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in creating and expanding a culture of transformational philanthropy through stewardship, providing strong leadership, and having successfully done the following: Implemented consistent fundraising strategies and principles. Secured six‑figure donations from individual donors and corporations. Managed a team of three or more individuals. Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills. Built and maintained relationships with a diverse group of individuals. Secured planned gifts. Used Microsoft Office Suite with proficiency. Used a CRM with proficiency. Demonstrated proficiency in digital fundraising tools and multi‑channel campaign management, including email, online giving platforms, and social media. Analyzed fundraising data and prepared clear reports and presentations for leadership and board audiences. Applied knowledge of local and national philanthropic trends to inform and adapt a fundraising strategy. Demonstrated strong public speaking and storytelling skills to inspire donor engagement. Education and Experience Five or more years of progressive responsibility in fundraising, development, or community relations required. Experience in fundraising for a nonprofit organization required; CFRE highly preferred. Two years of direct supervision of professional staff required. Physical Requirements Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Additional Information Parents of children and young adults with disabilities are encouraged to apply. PACER is committed to building an inclusive workplace and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply. PACER staff are currently working a hybrid remote and in‑office model. Salary will be determined based on experience and qualifications within the posted range. To apply, send resume and cover letter via: Email: View email address on click.appcast.io or mail to: Recruitment Director, PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Minneapolis, MN 55437 Applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance. PACER Center is an affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr