Director of Philanthropy

Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc.•Virginia Beach, VA

just now•Hybrid

About The Position

Edgar Cayce's A.R.E. is seeking a visionary Director of Philanthropy to lead a new era of philanthropic partnership. This role reimagines fundraising as ministry and donors as partners in purpose, focusing on spiritual fulfillment rather than transactional fundraising. It's a transformational leadership opportunity to build a donor-centered culture and advance the organization's mission into its second century, with potential capital campaign opportunities on the horizon. The organization is an $8M–$10M nonprofit founded by Edgar Cayce in 1931, with a mission to create opportunities for profound personal change through holistic health, dreams, intuition, meditation, ancient mysteries, personal spirituality, and the wisdom of the Cayce material. Affiliated entities include Atlantic University, the Cayce/Reilly School of Massage, and the A.R.E. Health Center & Spa.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required (business, communications, nonprofit management, or related); Master's preferred.
Minimum 7–10 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience with a demonstrable track record.
Proven success in donor-centered, relationship-based philanthropy (not transactional fundraising).
Deep expertise in major gifts and planned/legacy giving; experience leading high-performing teams.
Demonstrated success across annual giving, capital campaigns, foundation/corporate relations, stewardship, and database management.
Background in nonprofit leadership with executive-level responsibilities.
Deep commitment to ethical, relationship-based philanthropy. Ability to resist pressure for short-term results in favor of sustainable growth. A pastoral approach—absorbing chaos, projecting calm, giving hope.
Exceptional interpersonal skills; deep listening; high EQ, maturity, and self-awareness; natural curiosity about what matters most to others.
Visionary yet pragmatic; experience leading change and building programs from the ground up; strong analytical skills; entrepreneurial mindset.
Outstanding written and verbal communication; ability to craft compelling, emotionally resonant cases for support; persuasive without being manipulative.
Proficiency with donor databases (Aptify strongly preferred); openness to marketing automation; advanced Microsoft Office skills; data-driven mindset.
Knowledge of and appreciation for Edgar Cayce's philosophy and the principles in the readings (kindness, active patience, service orientation). Understanding that A.R.E.'s work is spiritual in nature—akin to ministry.
Uncompromising integrity. Humility balanced with confidence. Resilience and grace under rejection. A solution-oriented attitude, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a good sense of humor.
Valid driver's license required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience leading high-performing teams.
Experience with Aptify CRM.
Knowledge of Edgar Cayce's philosophy and principles in the readings.

Responsibilities

Serve on the executive leadership team; help shape organizational strategy and long-range planning.
Develop and execute a comprehensive, data-informed philanthropic strategy aligned with mission and values.
Lead the transformation from transactional fundraising to relationship-based partnership; establish metrics, benchmarks, and accountability systems.
Prepare for and potentially lead future capital campaign initiatives in partnership with the CEO and Board.
Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a growing philanthropy team (building to 4 positions, including Associate Philanthropy Officer, Legacy Giving Officer, and Stewardship Officer).
Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development; create a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
Partner with a nonprofit consultant to ensure best practices and strategic guidance.
Personally manage a portfolio of 50–75 major gift and legacy prospects.
Design engagement strategies using supporter connection surveys and data analytics.
Conduct meaningful qualification, cultivation, and stewardship through visits, calls, and correspondence.
Match donor passions with organizational needs; create opportunities for donors to experience A.R.E.'s mission firsthand.
Design and oversee annual giving, mid-level, major gifts, and planned/legacy giving programs.
Develop and manage the Edgar Cayce Legacy Society and donor recognition programs.
Establish gift acceptance policies for complex assets; stay current on tax law and planned giving vehicles.
Continuously improve donor retention, currently at 41%.
Partner with Marketing on aligned, respectful donor communications; collaborate with program leaders to identify fundable priorities.
Work with Finance on gift processing, acknowledgment, and reporting.
Leverage the Aptify CRM and engagement fundraising technology to track cultivation and optimize donor experiences.
Train and equip staff, Board, and volunteers in their roles supporting philanthropic partnerships.