Director of Development and Communications

Stanford Sierra Youth & Families•Sacramento, CA

17h•$130,000 - $160,000

About The Position

The Director of Development and Communications (Director) leads SSYAF’s philanthropic and fund development efforts. They manage the agency’s public image through strategic communication and media relations, acting as a bridge between the agency’s mission and its external perception by donors and the wider community. The position includes the supervision of 6 staff to secure foundation, grant, and charitable contributions to ultimately support the mission, vision, and values of the agency. The Director will work closely with the CEO, the Executive Leadership Team, and the Board of Directors to maximize agency funding and public relations potential. The Director has a high level of competency in fundraising, developing long-standing donor relationships, and supporting broader fundraising efforts such as planned giving. In addition, the Director oversees SSYAF branding and communications strategy and serves as an official spokesperson for the agency. A natural relationship builder, the Director will foster connections in the community and create strong relationships with both new and existing donors.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred
Minimum six (6) years of progressive fund development experience, preferably in the non-profit sector or a minimum of six (6) years of experience in a sales role at a for-profit company.
Minimum three (3) years of public relations experience, including social media management, crisis communication, marketing, and public speaking.
Proven ability to work with executive leadership and Board of Directors on strategic vision.
Ability to inspire and develop teams, with an intuitive, hands-on management style that fosters growth and accountability.
A demonstrated commitment to DEIB in management practices, professional development, and workplace culture.
Skilled at establishing new community connections and deepening existing relationships.
Expertise in crisis communication planning and spokesperson training.
Ability to communicate passion for the mission and values of SSYAF.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, and database management systems.
Perform all duties in a manner consistent with the principles and values of SSYAF, while adhering to applicable professional codes of ethics, policies and procedures, contractor requirements, and regulatory requirements.

Nice To Haves

CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) or similar credential a plus

Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Vision Develop and implement visionary strategies for philanthropy and public relations, positioning the agency as a sector leader.
Collaborate across programs and departments to identify economic support opportunities.
Mentor staff and volunteers, fostering leadership in fund development and advocacy.
Conduct staff meetings and employee training and development, including hiring, growth opportunities, and performance reviews.
Work with CEO and leadership volunteers to empower Board members' fund development roles.
Attend Board meetings and serve on the Board Development Committee.
Leverage data analytics, key performance indicators, and donor software to optimize fundraising efforts and inform decision-making.
Proactively identify and manage risks in fundraising and public relations activities.
Fund Development and Donor Relations Create and maintain a donor-centered development plan with comprehensive relationship-building programs, including major gifts, annual giving, and grants.
Evaluate internal and external factors affecting fund development, establishing short- and long-range plans.
Develop a balanced funding mix and innovative fundraising strategies, including corporate sponsorships, major gifts, planned giving, and digital campaigns.
Ensure proper maintenance of donor records and gift management systems, including informational reports with the Finance Department.
Conduct prospect research to identify new donor engagement opportunities.
Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, laws, and ethical standards in fundraising.
Public Relations & Marketing Provide expertise in media relations, crisis management, and social media management.
Oversee high-quality branding and production of marketing materials.
Develop compelling narratives communicating the organization's impact.
Ensure public relations efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Establish collaborative relationships with community stakeholders and external entities.
Manage and implement the Crisis Communication Plan, preparing Executive Leadership as spokespeople.
Agency Specific Performs all duties in a manner consistent with the principles and values of agency, while adhering to applicable professional codes of ethics, the agency’s policies and procedures, contractor requirements, and regulatory requirements.
Models and communicates appropriate positive attitudes toward the agency’s Mission, Vision, and Values Works collaboratively with all agency programs and staff to provide support as needed
Utilizes and maintains calendar with all work-related details in order to manage time effectively and share calendar information with coworkers
Participates in on-going fundraising and communications trainings to expand professional skills
Performs other duties as necessary for the agency, as assigned
Completes all mandated Agency trainings
Adheres to the Policies and Procedures of the Agency