Head of Philanthropy

Description: The Head of Philanthropy provides strategic leadership for the fundraising, donor engagement, and philanthropic activities of JFCS. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role ensures the financial sustainability of the organization by cultivating strong donor relationships, expanding philanthropic partnerships, and implementing innovative fundraising strategies. The Head of Philanthropy is responsible for overseeing annual giving, planned giving, grants, and fundraising events, while coordinating with the communication and marketing team to elevate community awareness and donor engagement.

Requirements: Fundraising & Donor Development Participate in the planning and execution of the agency’s annual fundraising strategy, ensuring alignment with JFCS’s mission and priorities. Reinvigorates the planned giving program and legacy donor recruitment, including outreach to younger families and new constituencies in Sarasota. Supervise Grant Specialist and Marketing positions. Monitor and manage grant applications, reports, and compliance requirements in partnership with the CEO and program leaders. Leadership & Community Engagement Provide direction to build a culture of philanthropy across the agency. Collaborate with the CEO, Board of Directors, and leadership team to align fundraising goals with organizational priorities. Represent JFCS at community events, philanthropic networks, and public forums to promote the mission and impact of the agency. Partner with the Communications team to develop compelling case statements, donor communications, and fundraising campaigns. Events & Campaigns Direct the planning and execution of fundraising events, ensuring meaningful donor engagement and return on investment. Develop innovative campaigns that expand visibility, attract diverse donors to increase overall giving. Operations & Data Management Oversee donor database management and reporting systems to ensure accurate, timely donor tracking and performance measurement. Utilize data-driven analysis to evaluate donor trends and inform fundraising strategy. Ensure compliance with current fundraising best practices and laws impacting charitable giving.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification preferred. Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit management. Strong background in managing development operations, events, and fundraising campaigns. Experience in both nonprofit and for-profit environments a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: (KSAs) Fundraising Acumen: Expertise in planned giving, annual campaigns, events, and grant development. Strategic Leadership: Ability to align fundraising goals with organizational mission and priorities. Community Engagement: Exceptional interpersonal skills to build trust and credibility with donors, board members, and community leaders. Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication, including the ability to craft compelling proposals and donor materials. Data & Analytics: Skilled in donor database management, data analysis, and performance measurement. Integrity & Professionalism: High ethical standards, discretion, and commitment to donor-centered philanthropy. Innovation & Collaboration: Entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving; ability to foster teamwork and inspire staff and volunteers.

Training Requirements: Completion of all JFCS required trainings. Annual leadership development and supervisory training. Participation in external professional development and licensure maintenance, if applicable.

Physical Requirements: Light physical activity with occasional lifting (up to 10 lbs). Ability to travel to community sites and external meetings. Extended desk/computer work and mobility throughout the office. Ability to work extended hours and respond to unforeseen events. Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Acknowledgment & Signatures: I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand the job description for the Head of Philanthropy role. I understand that this job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. I understand that my role may evolve as organizational needs change.