Director of Advancement

Director of Advancement | LifeBUILDERS Detroit

LifeBUILDERS is a faith-based 501(c)(3) community development organization with over 20 years of service in Detroit’s Regent Park community. Our mission is rooted in the love of Christ, impacting the neighborhood through affordable housing, blight redevelopment, and meeting the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of families.

The Opportunity

The Director of Advancement is a key senior leadership role responsible for the comprehensive strategy to secure financial resources that advance the mission and vision of LifeBUILDERS. We are seeking a strategic, relationally-oriented leader with a deep commitment to Christian values and a proven track record in donor cultivation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and execute annual and long-term advancement plans, including major gifts, grants, and capital campaigns.
• Serve on the senior leadership team to contribute to organizational decision-making.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors on fundraising best practices.
• Analyze fundraising data and performance metrics to evaluate and adjust strategies.

Donor Engagement & Fundraising

• Identify, solicit, and steward relationships with individuals, churches, foundations, and corporate partners.
• Lead the execution of fundraising events and campaigns that connect donors to the mission.
• Oversee the grant-writing program, including opportunity identification and reporting.
• Manage donor database (Raiser’s Edge) to ensure accurate gift processing and timely acknowledgments.

Communications & Marketing

• Enhance digital storytelling to share the transformative impact of the ministry.
• Oversee the development of compelling materials, such as annual reports and newsletters.
• Act as a primary spokesperson for advancement efforts to diverse stakeholders.
• Manage brand awareness and messaging related to audience engagement.

Required Qualifications

Spiritual & Personal Requirements

• A deep, maturing relationship with Jesus Christ consistent with the organization’s statement of faith.
• Active membership in a local Christian community and a sense of calling to full-time ministry.
• Ability to integrate biblical principles into development and outreach strategies.
• A passion for urban ministry and investing in children and families.

Professional Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE or advanced degree preferred.
• Fundraising: Minimum 7 years of proven success in non-profit fundraising or ministry leadership.
• Context: At least 3 years of experience in, or a profound understanding of, urban ministry.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in donor management systems and fundraising software.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional relational abilities, compelling storytelling, and strong analytical planning.

Compensation & Benefits

LifeBUILDERS offers a competitive base salary commensurate with executive non-profit standards.

• Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan matching.
• Incentive Plan: An annual performance bonus of up to 20% of base salary may be awarded based on measurable goals (e.g., fundraising targets, donor retention, and grant acquisition).
• Ethical Standards: This plan adheres to AFP standards, prohibiting percentage-based commissions on donations.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates called to serve are invited to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and passion for the mission. Note: References and a background check are required.