Philanthropy Director
YMCA of East Tennessee
Office
Knoxville
Full Time
Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Philanthropy Director is responsible for assisting the CEO in developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the mission and long-term sustainability of the organization. This role leads to major gift cultivation, donor stewardship, planned giving, and foundation and corporate partnership development.
RequirementsKey Responsibilities:
Fundraising Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute a multi-year strategic plan to grow philanthropic revenue.
- Lead major gifts, annual giving, planned to give, and capital campaign efforts.
- Identify new revenue opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission and goals.
Donor Relations & Stewardship
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
- Oversee donor recognition and stewardship programs to maintain high donor engagement.
- Prepare impact reports and coordinate donor events.
Grant Management
- Identify prospective grants and oversee the grant proposal and reporting process.
- Collaborate with program staff to ensure accurate and timely submissions.
Team Leadership
- Assist CEO in building a culture of philanthropy within the organization by collaborating with board members and leadership.
Communications & Reporting
- Work with marketing and communications teams to align messaging with fundraising goals.
- Report regularly to CEO and Board on fundraising performance and donor pipeline.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification preferred.
- 7+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, including major gifts.
- Proven success in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Knowledge of fundraising software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Donor Perfect).
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently.
Preferred Skills:
- Passion for the organization’s mission.
- Experience with capital campaigns or endowment building.
- Knowledge of IRS regulations and ethical fundraising standards.
Philanthropy Director
Office
Knoxville
Full Time
September 2, 2025