Development Director

YWCA Charleston•Charleston, WV

8h•Onsite

About The Position

At YWCA Charleston, the Development Director serves as the captain of the fundraising efforts, responsible for the entire development operation. This role involves relationship building, storytelling, and strategic leadership to fuel the organization's mission of providing shelter, safety, childcare, advocacy, and hope. The position requires owning the development operation from events to the annual report to major donor cultivation, with the belief that fundraising provides a tangible way for individuals to support their community.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or external relations (including events, donor cultivation, or annual giving).
Demonstrated success in meeting or growing fundraising goals.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with donor databases like DonorPerfect or RazorsEdge.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in communications, nonprofit management, or related field.
Experience producing an annual report, marketing materials, or similar donor-facing publication.
Familiarity with the Charleston, WV, philanthropic community.

Responsibilities

Lead all fundraising efforts, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and special events.
Set annual development goals and build the calendar, systems, and team structure to meet them.
Serve on the leadership team, reporting to the Executive Director.
Plan, execute, and evaluate signature fundraising events (galas, luncheons, community campaigns, races).
Recruit event committees, manage volunteers, and ensure every event tells the YWCA story with heart.
Lead production of the annual report from data collection to narrative writing to design oversight.
Work with program staff to gather impact stories that give donors tangible results for their time, talent, or treasure.
Cultivate, steward, and deepen relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, and foundations.
Speak and write compellingly about YWCA Charleston's mission, tailoring the message for board members, community leaders, and first-time donors alike.
Work alongside the Executive Director on major donor meetings and public presentations.