Apply on Employer Site

Exceptional Minds · 2 days ago

Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships

Sherman Oaks, CA

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

$135K/yr - $145K/yr

Exceptional Minds is a non-profit academy and studio preparing young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in animation, visual effects, and 3D gaming. They are seeking a visionary Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships to manage fundraising efforts and secure financial support for their mission.

AnimationNon Profit

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the CEO and the Board of Directors to prepare and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan

Conceptualize strategic initiatives to build, curate, and expand the portfolio of major gift prospects, foundations, corporations, and high net worth individuals

Deepen relationships with current major donors and partners while launching systematic initiatives to identify and target other high-capacity financial contributors and the next generation of donors

Build and drive strategic partnerships with corporations, foundations, and nonprofit organizations to advance EM’s mission and impact

Align collaborative opportunities with organizational goals, ensuring measurable value and long-term sustainability

Serve as primary liaison, coordinating joint initiatives, programs, and events to maximize partner engagement

Track and evaluate partnership outcomes to inform strategy and optimize results

Represent the organization externally, enhancing visibility, credibility, and stakeholder relationships

Create special campaigns for fundraising to support highest priority needs for capital programs and scholarships

Oversee donor/prospect research as well as database management, continually monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on fundraising progress

Implement and oversee a comprehensive relationship management program

Prepare, manage, and deliver compelling written materials and persuasive presentations for donor engagement

Oversee the development and management of partner agreements

Develop a communications plan focused on supporting the growth and fundraising goals of the organization

In collaboration with the CEO and Marketing, craft effective communications and messages which help engage, educate, and steward various audiences, primarily prospective supporters, partners, and donors

Develop, adapt, and oversee all external communications related to development, including content for annual reports, year-end appeals, and other donor collateral

Identify opportunities to tell Exceptional Minds story in traditional broadcast or print media, positioning the CEO as a mission-driven thought leader focused on impact and funding needs

In coordination with the team, CEO, and Board, conceive, plan, and budget for special events to advance the organization's goals, retain current donors, and engage wider audiences of potential supporters

Consult with the CEO and leadership teams on organizational priorities to ensure alignment in communications and development plans; provide the CEO with regular updates

Help build a culture of philanthropy internally by providing education and training, where appropriate

Lead with optimism and flexibility, turning challenges into opportunities and aligning strategies to achieve measurable success

Analyze and track key metrics, identifying trends and proactively addressing partner and donor needs

Establish and manage metrics to accurately measure and report on the efficacy of the department’s personnel, programs, and systems

Conduct in-depth market research to stay abreast of industry trends, competition, and potential funding sources and strategic partners

Oversee Development Coordinator and department contractors, consultants, and fundraising committees

Qualification

Major gift fundraisingStrategic partnershipsNonprofit developmentBudgeting techniquesMarket researchCommunication strategyRelationship managementNegotiation skillsTeam leadership

Required

Senior-level nonprofit major gift fundraising

Proven track record of soliciting, securing, and stewarding five to six figure gifts

Must have strong knowledge or personal passion for the autism philanthropic landscape, including experience with major donors and foundations locally and nationally

Proven success in health and human services focused fundraising, with preferred experience within entertainment or creative programs

Proven track record of collaborating within senior management teams and contributing to organizational strategy

Prior experience in development, strategic initiatives, or fundraising for non-profit, foundation, campaign organizations, or similar organizations

Strong negotiation skills and history working with high-level executives to secure partnerships and major gifts

Proficiency in budgeting and projection techniques

Bachelor's degree in philanthropy, business, or a related field, or equivalent work experience