Development and Communications Director

Job Full Description

Development & Communications Director Job Summary


A mission-driven nonprofit organization in Grand Rapids is seeking a Development & Communications Director to lead fundraising strategy and oversee communications efforts. This role partners closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to support long-term financial sustainability and organizational growth, with a focus on donor engagement, major gifts, and grant management. The position also collaborates with internal leadership and external partners to execute marketing and branding initiatives that strengthen overall visibility and impact.


Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with organizational goals
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners
• Lead major gift initiatives and planned giving efforts in partnership with the CEO and Board
• Oversee grant lifecycle including research, writing, submission, and reporting
• Manage funding opportunities across government, foundation, and corporate sources
• Plan and execute fundraising events, including logistics, vendor coordination, and volunteer management
• Support broader campaign strategies to increase donor engagement and revenue
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external marketing partners to implement branding and communications strategy
• Oversee development of fundraising and marketing materials (newsletters, annual reports, social media, etc.)
• Develop and manage the development budget and track fundraising performance metrics
• Maintain accurate donor records within CRM systems
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers involved in advancement efforts
• Provide oversight to development-related committees and consultants
• Support additional initiatives as directed by the CEO

Additional Details

• Location: Grand Rapids, MI
• Compensation: $63,000 - $70,000
• Position Type: Full-time (40 hours/week; some evenings/weekends required), Exempt

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business, marketing, communications, or related field
• 3+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience with a demonstrated track record of meeting or exceeding goals
• Proven success in grant writing and grant management
• Strong written, verbal, and public speaking communication skills
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors and board members
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills
• Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, DonorPerfect) and digital fundraising tools
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred:

• Established network within the greater Grand Rapids community

Apply Now!

• Send Susan your resume to
• Give our office a call: View phone number on click.appcast.io (direct) View phone number on click.appcast.io (office)
• Stop by our office: 1760 44th Street SW, Suite 10, Wyoming, MI 49519, Inside the Chateau Centre.

About Specialized Recruiting Group, an Express Employment Professionals Company:
Specialized Recruiting Group is a professional and executive search firm specializing in engineering, operations, human resources, and other critical roles. Since 1996, we've connected talented professionals with companies that align with their values and goals. We are driven to help people succeed and are passionate about making a positive impact.

Grand Rapids, MI
1357
1760 44th St SW
#10
Grand Rapids, MI 49519