Director of Development

The Organization

College Beyond is a New Orleans-based nonprofit whose mission is to help students get to and through college. Recognizing that only 11% of low-income students complete college within 6 years of high school graduation, College Beyond works to provide the support necessary to assure college persistence. College Beyond is non-selective for low-income students, serving the students who need the most support, regardless of GPA or test scores. College Beyond’s culture is data-driven, highly collaborative, and entrepreneurial, and is inspired by the core values of Courage, Mutuality, Excellence, Caring, and Responsibility.

College Beyond connects students, families, high schools, and higher education. The organization leverages the power of relationships to guide students through the academic, social, and financial transition from high school success to college persistence. College Beyond partners closely with university-based student supports to share data, identify gaps, and support continuous improvement for retention campus-wide. The organization is committed to bringing excellent resources to students who face the longest odds of college graduation.

Position Overview: The Director of Development will be a key member of the College Beyond leadership team, responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support our mission. This role requires a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record in fundraising, donor relations, and strategic planning. The Director of Development will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and other stakeholders to secure the financial resources necessary for the organization's growth and sustainability. This position will involve building fundraising systems and processes from the ground up, as there is currently no development team in place.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising Strategy:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan, including individual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and planned giving.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Create and implement innovative fundraising campaigns and initiatives to increase donor engagement and support.

Donor Relations:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, ensuring timely and personalized communication.
• Develop and oversee donor recognition programs to acknowledge and thank donors for their contributions.
• Organize and coordinate donor appreciation events and activities.

Grant Writing and Management:

• Research, identify, and apply for relevant grants and funding opportunities.
• Manage the grant application process, including proposal writing, submission, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with all grant requirements and maintain accurate records.

Marketing and Communications:

• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop and implement effective communication strategies to promote fundraising efforts.
• Create compelling fundraising materials, including brochures, newsletters, and social media content.
• Increase visibility and awareness of College Beyond’s mission and impact through strategic marketing initiatives.

Systems Development:

• Develop and implement fundraising systems and processes, including donor management databases and tracking tools.
• Establish policies and procedures for effective and efficient fundraising operations.
• Continuously assess and improve fundraising strategies and systems to maximize results.

Collaboration and Leadership:

• Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals and priorities.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy within the organization and among stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, development, or a related role.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising, including securing major gifts and grants.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong strategic planning and organizational abilities.
• Experience with donor database management and fundraising software.
• Knowledge of the New Orleans philanthropic community is a plus.
• Ability to develop systems and processes from the ground up.

• Passion for education and commitment to the mission of College Beyond.

Benefits

Salary: Salary range of $85,000 - $90,000 per year, commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits Include:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 401k retirement plan with employer-matching contributions.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays).
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company.