Director of Fundraising (with Executive Leadership Responsibilities)

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Leadership

• Develop and Execute Fundraising Strategies: Design and implement a robust multi-year fundraising plan to secure diverse revenue streams, including individual donors, corporate sponsorships, foundations, grants, and government funding. Expand and diversify revenue generation to support existing programs and operations. 
• Major Donor Engagement: Cultivate and maintain relationships with high-net-worth individuals and key philanthropic stakeholders to secure significant contributions.
• Corporate and Strategic Partnerships: Identify and establish relationships with potential corporate sponsors, institutional partners, and international organizations to support FIRST Global’s mission.
• Grant Writing and Management: Lead the preparation and submission of compelling grant proposals and manage grant compliance, reporting, and stewardship.

Executive Leadership

• Team Leadership: Provide guidance and mentorship to staff, contractors, and volunteers involved in fundraising and outreach activities.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the Executive Director and senior leadership to set organizational priorities, refine strategy, and develop operational plans.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as an ambassador for FIRST Global, representing the organization at events, in the media, and during stakeholder engagements.
• Organizational Oversight: Contribute to the development of policies, budgets, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to align with organizational objectives.

Operational Excellence

• Donor Stewardship: Ensure a personalized and high-quality donor experience, including acknowledgment processes, impact reporting, and ongoing communication.
• Technology and Data Management: Utilize CRM tools and analytics to track fundraising progress, measure success, and identify areas for improvement.
• Global Outreach: Engage with FIRST Global’s international network to identify localized fundraising opportunities and align efforts with global priorities.

Qualifications

Required Experience and Skills

• Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, including securing six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Demonstrated success in cultivating and managing donor relationships.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with experience in organizational strategy and operations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in crafting compelling proposals and public presentations.
• Familiarity with CRM systems, donor databases, and analytics tools.
• Passion for STEM education and global initiatives.
• 10+ years of experience minimum.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in international fundraising or working with global organizations.
• Background in grant writing and reporting.
• Knowledge of robotics, technology, or STEM-related industries is a plus.

Personal Attributes

• Able to articulate and execute a clear vision for growth and impact.
• Skilled at fostering relationships across diverse cultures, industries, and stakeholders.
• A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to achieving measurable outcomes.
• Comfortable navigating complex, evolving priorities and working with a remote, globally dispersed team.

Permanent U.S. work authorization required.