DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Reports to: President and CEO

Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

Location: Oconomowoc, WI (Hybrid possible – 1-2 days per week)

To apply, please email [email protected] your resume.

Position Summary: The Development Director will be responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing an initial Capital Campaign and well as a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances Journey21’s mission. This role requires both strategic vision and hands-on execution—building relationships, securing major gifts, overseeing events, and expanding the organization’s base of philanthropic support.

The ideal candidate is a passionate advocate for inclusion, an inspiring storyteller, and a results-driven fundraiser with a proven track record in cultivating donor relationships and achieving revenue goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Capital Campaign

  • Develop and execute a Capital Campaign for Phase 2: The Journey at Pabst Farms (JPF) residential community development and Phase 3 Capital Campaign campus expansion.

  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects, corporate partners, and foundations.

  • Lead grant residential research, writing, and reporting in partnership with program staff.

  • Database management

  • Statistical analysis of donors, wealth screening, prospect research, etc.

  • Manage campaign pledge goals, tracking, and strong fiduciary processes.

  • Major gift connections and building relationships with families, foundations, businesses and community organizations.

  • Manage and execute Donor Appreciation process and acknowledgements.

Fundraising & Revenue Generation

  • Develop and execute an annual and multi-year development plan to meet or exceed fundraising goals.

  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects, corporate partners, and foundations.

  • Expand individual giving programs, including recurring gifts and planned giving.

  • Lead grant IDD program/support research, writing, and reporting in partnership with program staff.

  • Performance metrics for donor retention.

  • Manage donor recognition and ensure meaningful stewardship at all giving levels.

Events & Campaigns

  • Plan and oversee signature fundraising events, including the annual Gala, Golf Outing, and special campaigns.

  • Develop and implement creative fundraising campaigns aligned with Journey21’s mission.

  • Leverage events to deepen donor engagement and expand the organization’s reach.

Communications & Storytelling

  • Partner with marketing staff to create compelling donor communications, impact reports, and social media content.

  • Represent Journey21 in the community through public speaking engagements, donor meetings, and networking events.

  • Ensure consistent messaging that reflects the values and mission of Journey21.

Leadership & Collaboration

  • Work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Development Committee to advance fundraising goals.

  • Provide regular reports on progress toward fundraising objectives.

  • Support and train board members and volunteers in fundraising best practices.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field (Master’s preferred).

  • Minimum of 5 years of progressive fundraising experience, preferably in a nonprofit setting.

  • Proven track record of securing major gifts and managing donor portfolios.

  • Exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong storyteller.

  • Experience with donor management software (e.g., DonorPerfect, Raiser’s Edge) and CRM systems.

  • Strategic thinker with strong organizational and project management skills.

  • Passion for Journey21’s mission and a deep commitment to inclusion and equity.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.

  • Paid time off, holidays, and personal days.

  • Flexible scheduling and hybrid work opportunities.

  • Professional development opportunities.

To apply, please email [email protected] your resume.