Chief Development Officer

Miami Waterkeeper (MWK) is an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to protecting Biscayne Bay and the surrounding watershed. Launched in 2010, MWK has become a leading advocate for clean water, inspiring a movement of empowered citizens dedicated to achieving swimmable, drinkable, fishable water. Addressing issues on multiple fronts, we use community outreach, scientific research, and civic and legal action to advance our mission. Miami Waterkeeper is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment. We are a lean, hard-working team that is mission-driven and passionate about our environment and our community.

Miami Waterkeeper is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Development Officer to lead our development team and fundraising efforts. As the Chief Development Officer, you will play a pivotal role in securing the financial resources necessary to support our mission, programs, and initiatives. This team member will be responsible for continuing to grow our comprehensive fundraising strategy, cultivating donor relationships, and overseeing the execution of all fundraising activities to ensure we hit our revenue goals to support our aggressive growth plan. This individual should have a proven track record of cultivating and securing six-figure-plus gifts, and be willing to implement new fundraising systems and be adept at scaling and growing teams, as well as mentoring and training staff. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic organization and make a tangible impact on the health and resilience of Miami's environment and future.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Fundraising Strategy: Continue to build on our strategic fundraising plan aligned with the organization's mission, goals, and programs.
• Donor Cultivation: Identify, engage, and cultivate relationships with individual donors, major donors, foundations, corporations, and government agencies to secure financial support.
• Major Gifts: Lead major gifts initiatives, including our “PartnerSHIP” program, and prospect research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and foundations.
• Corporate Partnerships: Identify and pursue strategic partnerships with corporations and businesses that align with Miami Waterkeeper's mission.
• Team Management: Provide leadership, mentorship, and support to the development team, fostering a culture of collaboration, professional growth, and high performance.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gift Tracking and Database: Oversee the design and implementation of a gift and donor tracking system to the highest standards
• Donor Communications: Oversee the development and implementation of effective donor communication strategies, including donor appeals, acknowledgment letters, impact reports, and other relevant material in coordination with Marketing team
• Board Engagement: Collaborate with the board of directors and trustees, providing guidance on fundraising strategies, donor cultivation, and stewardship.
• Budgeting and Reporting: Develop and manage the development department budget, track fundraising metrics, and provide regular reports to the executive team and board of directors.
• Fundraising Events: Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, including donor cultivation events, and community engagement activities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., nonprofit management, business administration, environmental studies) is required. 
• Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing fundraising initiatives in the nonprofit sector, with a focus on significant major gifts (six-figure-plus)
• Strong knowledge of fundraising principles, best practices, and ethical standards, including experience with various fundraising strategies, techniques, and platforms.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively engage and inspire a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with donors, board members, and external partners.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute innovative fundraising strategies that align with organizational goals.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Leadership experience, including team management, coaching, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Passion for environmental conservation, dedication to the mission of Miami Waterkeeper.

SALARY RANGE

$160,000-$210,000

BENEFITS

•   Medical, dental, and vision plan
•   Retirement Account (limited 401K matching)
•   Generous time off policies
•   Remote work flexibility
•   Relaxed work atmosphere and dress code

Job Type: Full-time

Location: Miami, FL

Reports to: ED and Waterkeeper

Contact: Please fill out the form at this link to apply. Note: You will be asked to share your resume and a cover letter stating why would like to work for Miami Waterkeeper.

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Miami Waterkeeper is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We strongly value diversity, equity, and inclusion both in our organization and in our community.