Director of Development

YouthLink•Minneapolis, MN

21d

About The Position

YouthLink is a recognized leader in the Twin Cities and beyond for our work to build pathways of opportunity for homeless youth and youth in crisis ages 16 – 24. Our model is based on providing support through outreach, handling basic needs, intervention, and aftercare. Our youth-focused team provides innovative, evidence-based services that guide youth on a holistic level toward futures of education, employment, health and wellness, housing stability and aftercare. We are looking for a dynamic and strategic Director of Development to join our team and lead the development team with all our fundraising through the solicitation of private funders and major gifts, federal and state grants, special and micro events, corporate and foundation support. This includes expanding and diversifying the donor base/pipeline which involves working with other team members to secure funding for general operating, existing and new initiatives. The Director of Development will work closely with the board of directors to nurture and support growth to build their capacity and role as fund-raisers for the organization. Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Development serves as a key leadership team member and has direct influence in making strategic decisions affecting YouthLink. In partnership with the CEO and Board members, this position plays a pivotal role in shaping, growing and sustaining our organization by cultivating relationships, securing funding and expanding our impact. The successful candidate will bring a proven track record in development, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for our mission at YouthLink. Come take this journey with us!

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, Nonprofit Management, or related field; master’s preferred
8-plus years of professional experience in development, nonprofit organization and/or related experience; demonstrated success in a development function (managing and forging relationships with multiple donor sources).
Minimum of 3 years leading, developing, and mentoring the development team.
Knowledge of fundraising software and donor tracking systems.
Ability to construct, articulate, and execute an annual strategic development plan.
Proven track record of raising funds from diverse sources, including major gifts from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
Strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Strong interpersonal, supervision, administration, and management skills.
A high degree of professionalism and ability to work with and maintain confidential information.
Demonstrated commitment to accountability, measuring outcomes and a results-oriented culture.
Consistent ability to perform and contribute positively in a diverse, collaborative team environment.
Flexible and adaptable style; a leader who can positively impact both strategic and tactical fundraising initiatives.
Dynamic energy, ability to multi-task, creatively solve problems, and negotiate multiple demands on attention.
Comfort with Microsoft Office applications as well as exhibit an ability to learn and utilize handheld applications systems and other electronic recording systems.
Demonstrate an ability to utilize continuous improvement techniques and quality research methods to optimize overall program operation and build community relationships.
Ability to work efficiently and effectively both individually and as part of a professional team.

Responsibilities

Lead the development team with all our fundraising through the solicitation of private funders and major gifts, federal and state grants, special and micro events, corporate and foundation support.
Expanding and diversifying the donor base/pipeline which involves working with other team members to secure funding for general operating, existing and new initiatives.
Work closely with the board of directors to nurture and support growth to build their capacity and role as fund-raisers for the organization.
Serves as a key leadership team member and has direct influence in making strategic decisions affecting YouthLink.
Plays a pivotal role in shaping, growing and sustaining our organization by cultivating relationships, securing funding and expanding our impact.
Overseeing communications, media and public relations, outreach opportunities for the organization.
Manage the marketing, messaging, communications component ensuring adherence to branding guidelines and creating visible, effective mass communications pieces.
Demonstrated experience in monitoring all donor information; provide and present statistical analysis to board and senior leaders.
Experience in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual reports as requested by the CEO Director and Board.
Oversee and research funding sources and trends, with foresight, to help position YouthLink to ahead of major funding changes or trends.