Blue Star Families (BSF) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting military families by strengthening communities, improving military family readiness, and ensuring military family well-being. BSF seeks a full-time Vice President, Development (VP, Development) to oversee and manage all fundraising and development activities.
As a key member of the senior leadership team, the VP, Development will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to meet the organization’s ambitious goals. The ideal candidate will be an experienced and passionate fundraising professional with a proven track record of success in securing significant gifts from diverse funding sources.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee and manage all fundraising and development activities, including individual giving, institutional giving (corporate and foundation), major gifts, planned giving, and special events.
- Lead the development team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment to meet organizational fundraising goals.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive, multi-year development strategy aligned with BSF’s strategic goals and objectives.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major donors, corporate partners, and foundation prospects.
- Work closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and other senior leaders to engage them in fundraising efforts and leverage their networks.
- Oversee grant writing and reporting to ensure compliance and effective communication with funders.
- Manage the development budget, ensuring financial efficiency and accountability.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records and ensure proper acknowledgment and recognition.
- Stay informed about fundraising best practices and trends, and adapt strategies accordingly.
- Represent BSF at external events and meetings to promote the organization’s mission and solicit support.
- Collaborate with the communications and marketing team to develop compelling fundraising materials and campaigns.
- Foster a culture of philanthropy within the organization and among its stakeholders.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a strong track record of success in securing significant gifts from diverse funding sources.
- Proven experience in leading and managing a development team.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies.
- Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities.
- Proficiency in donor management software (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Experience working with military-connected families or in a related field is a plus.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Blue Star Families.
