Director of Development

Reporting to Chief Operating Officer, the Director of Development will be responsible for planning, developing, and implementing strategies to secure financial support through major gifts, planned giving, foundation and corporate giving, special events, annual giving, and other campaigns. The Director will work to build and maintain relationships with donors, foster a culture of philanthropy, and support the overall mission and goals of The Ministry of Caring. The Director of Development will rebuild the infrastructure and revitalize the development program as the organization broadens its reach and deepens its impact. The Director will play a critical role in establishing a culture of philanthropy, fostering donor relationships, and securing the financial support necessary to advance the mission. Specific Responsibilities Strategic Leadership and Fundraising Lead the creation and implementation of a diversified, comprehensive fundraising message and plan that represents the organization, its multimillion-dollar budget, and its mission that is both cost-effective and time efficient. Drive revenue growth across multiple streams, including major gifts, foundation and corporate giving, annual giving, planned giving, special events, and digital campaigns. Cultivate and steward a portfolio of major donors and prospects through personalized engagement strategies. Oversee all aspects of grant writing, proposal development, and reporting in coordination with relevant staff. Oversee the development budget and monitor expenses. Use data and analytics to assess progress, identify trends, and inform fundraising strategies. Expect challenges and proactively develop creative, goal-oriented solutions. Align fundraising strategies with organizational priorities and broader strategic goals. Serve as a visible and articulate ambassador for the organization with external stakeholders. Ensure compliance with multi-state laws and regulations related to fundraising for non-profits. Collaboration and Team Leadership Develop, manage, mentor, and support the development team of fundraising professionals and volunteers, setting clear expectations and providing regular feedback. Collaborate with the communications team and other staff to ensure cohesive messaging and branding across fundraising strategies, materials and campaigns. Coordinate with volunteer organizations on fundraising initiatives to ensure effectiveness and alignment with overall strategies. Encourage a collaborative, mission-focused team environment driven by accountability and results. Marketing Coordinate the creation of compelling donor-facing content, including solicitation letters, impact reports, stewardship communications, event materials, campaign messaging and social media. Ensure consistency and clarity in messaging across platforms and campaigns. Data, Reporting, and Technology Oversee management donor database systems (Raiser’s Edge and iWave), ensure data integrity, accurate reporting, and effective tracking of donor engagement. Utilize data to evaluate ROI on fundraising efforts and utilize metrics to adjust strategies accordingly. Generate analysis for leadership and report to the Board of Directors on a regular basis. Flexibility and Adaptability Remain responsive to changing fundraising conditions, shifting donor trends, and emerging opportunities. Adapt strategies and timelines in response to unforeseen circumstances while maintaining focus on long-term goals. Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic nonprofit environment. THE CANDIDATE The Director of Director must have an understanding of and passion for the goals and mission of The Ministry of Caring. The ideal candidate is an experienced development professional who thrives in environments of change, brings strategic insight, and is passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities. The Director of Development will be a visionary, compassionate, and collaborative leader, and outstanding communicator who clarifies goals, builds teams, and cultivates trust while at the same time demanding accountability. Qualifications Minimum of 5 to 7 years of progressive experience in nonprofit development, with at least 2 years in a leadership capacity. Proven success in securing major gifts, managing campaigns, and stewarding donor relationships. Knowledge of foundation and corporate fundraising, grant writing, planned giving, and special event planning. Goal-oriented strategist with a growth mindset who can create and execute new giving opportunities to expand financial resources. Ability to work with a Board of Directors, senior leadership, and community stakeholders. Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Excellent public speaking skills complemented by a demonstrated ability to interact in a social setting with ease and grace. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting compelling, mission-aligned messaging. Strong strategic thinking, critical analysis, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with flexibility, and attention to detail. Self-confidence, humility, integrity, warmth, and a flexible personal style. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Familiarity with social media. Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge or ability to learn. Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business, or Public Administration. Willing and able to travel locally and attend evening and weekend events and meetings as needed. THE ORGANIZATION The Ministry of Caring is a vibrant community of staff, volunteers, donors, and diverse supporters united by a passion to serve the poor. Together, they gladly give of themselves to fulfill the vision of the Founder and Executive Director, Brother Ronald Giannone, OFM Cap., “the poor should never be treated poorly.” Founded in 1977 in Wilmington, Delaware, the Ministry began with the region’s first shelter for homeless and destitute women. The Ministry now has 18 programs across 28 sites serving thousands of individuals each year, providing a full range of social services. The Emmanuel Dining Room – welcoming the hungry at three sites, no questions asked – has provided 7+ million meals. The housing program spans emergency shelter to permanent housing. The Ministry provides safe, comfortable housing for men, women, women with children, adults with disabilities, those living with HIV/AIDS, and their beloved seniors. Additional programs include job placement and training, Rapid Rehousing services, low-cost high-quality childcare, and more. All the programs aim to lift the poor, help them gain self-sufficiency, restore their self-worth, and renew their hope. #J-18808-Ljbffr