Corporate Relations Director

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids•Grand Rapids, MI

3d•$75,000 - $90,000•Onsite

About The Position

As a key part of the YMCA’s overall efforts to enhance its resources, reputation, and relationships, the Corporate Relations Director serves a leading role in executing a high-performing, frontline, corporate gift fundraising program. Reporting to the Vice President for Advancement, this position will have a lead role in the development and implementation of a new corporate engagement plan and strategy for the YMCA to secure philanthropic support and value add from corporate partners. This position collaborates closely with Association leadership, the Board of Directors, and cross-functional teams to enhance corporate giving initiatives, support campaigns and signature events, and drive a culture of philanthropy across the Association. The Corporate Relations Director is also responsible for tracking performance metrics, forecasting revenue, managing budgets, and continuously identifying innovative opportunities to grow corporate partnerships and advance the YMCA’s impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or a related field required.
A minimum of four (4) years of fundraising experience, with particular emphasis on corporate relations and solicitation
Proven ability to think on one’s feet; evaluate relevant information, recognize alternatives, and reach logical conclusions based on the information available; manage day-to-day problems in a practical and effective way
Superior communication skills; specifically, the talent to speak effectively and make oneself understood in both informal settings and before a group and refined listening skills to acquire relevant information effectively
The sensitivity to perceive and react with consideration to the needs and feelings of others; competence in developing relationships that enhance understanding, communication, and friendliness
The skill to influence, persuade, motivate, and convince others of the worthiness of a cause, the need for specific action and/or appropriateness of a gift
Must be able and willing to work in accordance with high, self-imposed standards and discipline; be a self-starter; devote extra effort to get the job done whenever necessary. Must be able to work in a fast-paced, demanding, and results-oriented environment
Possess the discipline to structure personal activities to maximize productivity and efficiency; arrange documentation and information in a systematic manner; establish objectives and plans for the accomplishment of goals; set priorities; meet deadlines
Strong experience in analyzing and interpreting data to drive donor strategies with the ability to conceptualize, develop, implement, and assess strategic development activities
Must be able to present a written message in a clear, concise, interesting, and effective manner
Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office/Excel applications, and Fundraising CRMs is essential
A strong, collaborative, outgoing, and energetic individual with seasoned fundraising skills is essential. The ability to adapt and respond appropriately to the demands of a variety of situations including working early mornings, evenings and weekends to attend events and meetings required. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages and lifestyles.
Blood Borne Pathogen training
State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)

Responsibilities

Promote and maintain a personal commitment to the mission of the YMCA
Work with the Vice President of Advancement on strategic planning and goal setting for Corporate Relations and the Office of Advancement. Corporate Relations includes fundraising support for the Y’s Golf Outing and Hour of Impact special events, as well as partnering with the Vice President of Advancement to create new and expansive corporate partner opportunities
Establish and solicit strategies to achieve annual and long-term objectives to expand corporate support to meet financial goals and Association priorities.
Work with the Vice President of Advancement to build and manage a corporate partner portfolio for this role capable of generating $1M+ annually in direct support
Regularly report to the VPA on fundraising performance metrics, including gift forecasting. Actively participate in the establishment of annual performance metrics and foster a culture of accountability
Provide campaign support, related to corporate partners, to the President/CEO, Vice President of Advancement, colleagues, and the Board of Directors to foster an environment that promotes strategic coordination across all fundraising efforts
Meet regularly to review gift strategies and plans for corporate prospects assigned to colleagues across the Association. Participate in the training and professional growth of colleagues related to corporate fundraising best practices
Assist in the adherence to the Advancement Departments annual budget by monitoring direct and indirect Corporate Relations budget expenditures
Continually enrich professional and philanthropic skills, including the understanding of tax laws related to corporate giving, by attending workshops, seminars, conferences, and through professional reading
Perform additional duties as assigned to ensure the success of the YMCA and its mission-driven work.

Benefits

Free YMCA Family Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities & program discounts for you and your family!
20% Childcare Discount – Discount is off the regular rate for each child enrolled in a YMCA childcare program, excluding the infant room.
Comprehensive Medical Coverage – Up to 93% employer paid plan options through Blue Care Network.
Dental and Vision Insurance – low-cost coverage options.
Health Savings Account (HSA) – Receive up to $1,040 in employer contributions each year to help cover qualified medical expenses.
Generous Paid Time Off – Beginning with 4 weeks of PTO per year, plus 9 paid holidays.
Paid Parental Leave - Dedicated time off to support you during the arrival or adoption of a child.
Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
Paid Disability Leave – short & long term disability coverage.
Life Insurance – employer paid life insurance, plus voluntary coverage for the entire family.
Optional Insurance – Customize your coverage with options like accident, hospital, pet, and legal insurance, plus more to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Pay on Demand – Access your earned wages before payday.
Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
Loan Forgiveness - Eligible employees can also take advantage of Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.