Associate Director of Philanthropy

The Nature Conservancy•Lexington, KY

4d•$77,000 - $87,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Philanthropy (ADOP) works closely with the philanthropy team to implement and coordinate effective multi-year strategies and plans for gift prospects, including corporate, foundation, and individual donors. TNC is embarking on its largest fundraising campaign to date in support of our 2030 goals. From reforestation, land protection, and fire management in eastern Kentucky to regenerative agriculture and wetland restoration in western Kentucky, The Nature Conservancy is building a brighter future and boosting resiliency for nature and people in the Commonwealth. The ADOP is responsible for building a portfolio of qualified donors and developing relationships. Relationship-based fundraising is our approach, and they will positively connect and engage with their teammates, prospects, donors, and stakeholders. They understand and apply the principles of developing donor strategies. They will focus on providing the best-in-class donor stewardship and thrive on connecting and qualifying discovery prospects. They will be responsible for direct asks in support of global, regional, and local priorities to meet funding needs. They listen for opportunities for gifts of assets or other non-cash gifts. They are energetic and focus on the daily work habits that are the foundations for success. They involve their Kentucky colleagues, Development Committee, Board of Trustees, and other natural partners, keeping them apprised of interactions, issues or concerns, and direct questions as appropriate. They can communicate the TNC programs in broad and compelling terms. The ADOP will be required to use TNC's Blackbaud donor database and participate in developing proposals. This position would require regular travel in Kentucky, focusing on particular geographies for donor meetings.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and 5 years of related experience or an equivalent combination.
Experience building and maintaining long-term relationships with fundraising constituents such as major donors, foundations, and corporations.
Experience in asking for and closing gifts of $25,000 or more.
Experience in managing and tracking multiple prospects and donors.
Experience working with cross-functional teams.
Experience, coursework, or other training in fundraising principles and practices.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.
Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Nice To Haves

Ability to determine an individual's interests, capacity, and potential for helping TNC meet its goals and act appropriately to tie those interests with our work.
Ability to educate and inform prospective and existing donors about appropriate giving vehicles.
Ability to implement and manage fundraising plans, including individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans.
Proven track record and experience with securing annual gifts, corporate philanthropy, campaigns, major gifts, and planned gifts.
Experience in event planning and curated donor stewardship events.
Demonstrated experience using listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships and motivate donors.
Strong writing skills for grants and personalized proposal development
Proven ability to negotiate sensitive philanthropic agreements.

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of 75-100 donors, including donors who can give over $100,000 once the portfolio is developed.
Raise an annual fundraising goal of $500,000 or more, in addition to a goal for bequest notifications and legacy gifts.
Conduct 400 moves and interactions during a Fiscal Year (based on the assumption of a portfolio of 100 donors), with special attention to cultivating relationships with new prospects to the organization.
Manage and implement strategic and highly curated events and/or donor engagement opportunities.
Develop personalized written proposals and submit grant proposals, as needed.
Act independently and in the supervisor’s stead as needed, and exercise independent judgment to identify and solve problems.
Decisions may have a program-wide impact and may bind the organization financially or legally.
Demonstrate sensitivity in handling confidential information.
Ensure compliance with TNC policies and procedures and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements.
Financial responsibility includes working within a budget and meeting fundraising objectives.
Manage assigned projects, coordinating the work of peers and setting deadlines.
May manage or participate in complex or sensitive negotiations.
Convey the mission of TNC to diverse groups essential to the organization's overall prosperity.
Travel (mostly within Kentucky) and work flexible hours as needed.