Business Development Director

CESC Inc. - The Kearney Center • Tallahassee, FL

3d

About The Position

The Kearney Center is seeking a passionate, relationship-driven Business Development Director to help expand our impact throughout the Big Bend community. This isn’t a traditional sales role. It’s an opportunity to build meaningful partnerships, connect people to a mission that changes lives, and secure the resources needed to help individuals experiencing homelessness move toward stability and independence. As our Business Development Director, you’ll serve as an ambassador for The Kearney Center by developing relationships with businesses, donors, foundations, civic organizations, and community leaders. You’ll identify new opportunities for support, help tell the stories of lives being transformed, and work alongside our leadership team to ensure our mission continues to grow. If you enjoy connecting people, building partnerships, and making a lasting impact in your community, we’d love to meet you.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or a related field preferred. Equivalent professional experience will also be considered.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in business development, fundraising, sales, marketing, community engagement, relationship management, or a related field.
• Valid Florida driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends for community events, networking opportunities, and fundraising activities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and public speaking abilities.
• Comfortable networking with business leaders, donors, elected officials, and community partners.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently while collaborating with leadership and community stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify opportunities and develop creative solutions.
• Strong follow-through and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Passion for serving others and advancing the mission of The Kearney Center.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CRM or donor management software is a plus.
• Experience in nonprofit fundraising or development.
• Experience cultivating corporate partnerships or sponsorships.
• Experience managing donor relationships or major gifts.
• Experience planning fundraising or community events.
• Grant writing or grant management experience.
• Marketing, communications, or public relations experience.
• Experience using donor management or CRM software.
• Existing relationships within the Tallahassee or Big Bend business community are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Build and strengthen relationships with businesses, donors, foundations, civic organizations, and community leaders.
• Identify new sponsorships, funding opportunities, and strategic partnerships.
• Represent The Kearney Center at networking events, community meetings, and public functions.
• Help cultivate and steward donor relationships through meaningful communication and engagement.
• Coordinate fundraising initiatives, donor appreciation efforts, and community events.
• Work with leadership to tell compelling stories that demonstrate the impact of our mission.
• Support marketing and community awareness efforts through presentations, newsletters, social media, and public engagement.
• Research new funding opportunities and collaborate on long-term fundraising strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of donor, partner, and community interactions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree