Director of Development

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Gloucester Adventure, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) maritime historic preservation and educational organization. We are the stewards of the 1926 dory-fishing Schooner Adventure, a National Historic Landmark. Our mission focuses on preserving the vessel, and using her for educational and community experiences on the water and dockside.

In this small and growing organization, the Director of Development is responsible for planning and directing all of Schooner Adventure’s fundraising endeavors including the annual fund, membership program, major gifts, special events, planned giving, and implementing the donor management software to support the function.  Reporting to and in partnership with the Executive Director, the Director of Development and Communications will spearhead development efforts as Schooner Adventure continues to transition and grow. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A minimum of 5 years experience in professional fundraising;
• Excellent communication skills, both written and in person; 
• Demonstrated experience in donor cultivation and stewardship, and in building partnerships;
• Advanced competency in spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets); fluency with Donor Perfect (or comparable CRM software); experience with social media, Constant Contact;
• The ability to learn and gain comfort with online platforms;
• The ability to project a positive attitude and dedication to the mission of Schooner Adventure, even in challenging situations;
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors on establishing development goals and budgets; 
• Lead and manage the organization’s efforts to meet those goals, financially and otherwise;
• Participate in monthly evening Board meetings and related Board Committee meetings, including presenting reports; 
• Direct the annual fund and membership program, including mailings and annual fundraising drives;
• Coordinate special events and sails, including a major annual spring fundraising Gala and donor receptions throughout the year;
• Manage fundraising database (Donor Perfect) and tracking systems and oversee data entry and gift processing;
• Initiate a well-considered plan for donor visits and fundraising calls, assign these to key staff and board members, and follow up where necessary;
• Meet prospective donors and supporters on a continual basis and establish effective communications with them;
• Motivate staff, board members and other volunteers to promote the mission and to engage in development activities;
• Grow our Captain’s Circle, including identification, cultivation and solicitation of major donors;
• Work with other members of the organization on grant seeking including research, proposal writing, and reporting requirements;
• Grow our corporate sponsor program and maintain good relationships with our existing sponsors;
• Take the lead on any new development efforts that may be initiated, such as capital campaigns, planned giving, 
• Work closely with the Bookkeeper to ensure data accuracy and reconciliations between Donor Perfect and QuickBooks; 
• Work closely with the staff members who serve as the marketing and media team;
• Oversee media and public relations efforts and opportunities to promote the organization’s programs;
• Make public appearances to share information about Schooner Adventure with the community;
• Perform other related duties as requested.

Benefits include 75% of health care costs, three weeks paid vacation, one week personal leave, and a flexible work schedule. We also support professional development opportunities to help you grow in your skills. And, of course, staff are encouraged to bring guests to sail on Adventure with them.