Job Description

The Senior Development Officer plays a pivotal role as a front-line fundraiser, advancing the mission of the foundation and college. Reporting to the Associate Director of the GRCC Foundation, this position is responsible for creating and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that encompasses major gifts, annual campaigns and planned giving initiatives. Focused on both retaining existing donors and attracting new ones, the Senior Development Officer will identify, cultivate and solicit support from individuals, corporations and foundations, fostering strong, lasting relationships through thoughtful communication, effective stewardship and meaningful engagement.

Requisition ID: 652
Department: College Advancement/GRCC Foundation
Employee Group: Professional, Management & Administrative
Schedule: 40 hours/52 weeks, Mon-Fri 8-5 but will require flexibility
Compensation: Grade OP5, $62,506
Benefits: Full-Time
Reports to: Associate Director, GRCC Foundation
Posting Opens: 12/05/2024
Posting Closes: 01/05/2025

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Fundraising and Development Strategies:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan that includes setting goals, creating an annual calendar, establishing metrics and adhering to timelines, ensuring alignment with overall foundation and college priorities.
  • Design and implement fundraising strategies for major gifts, planned giving and annual campaigns.
  • Identify, cultivate and solicit donors, including individuals, corporations and foundations.
  • Create and manage giving clubs and programs to retain current and attract new donors.
  • Collaborate with Alumni Relations Manager to develop strategies that focus on acquisition and retention of alumni donors.
  • In collaboration with Scholarship & Event Coordinator, plan and execute the Foundations annual fundraising event, specifically soliciting sponsorships.
  • Organize smaller, targeted cultivation and stewardship events that deepen relationships with donors and prospects.
  • Work collaboratively with the Vice President of College Advancement and Executive Director of the GRCC Foundation to provide college leadership and the Foundation Board of Directors with the necessary tools and strategies to help them participate in fundraising initiatives.
• Communication and Outreach:
  • In collaboration with the Marketing & Communications Department, design and produce fundraising materials for both print and digital platforms.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors and prospects, ensuring their contributions are recognized and they remain engaged with the college through effective communications, solicitations, stewardship activities and a well-managed schedule of cultivation visits and events.
• Database Management and Analysis:
  • Use the Foundations database to track and analyze annual giving trends, manage donor activities, and ensure accurate tracking and reporting.
  • Maintain an active database to expand the donor constituency.
• Build and nurture positive relationships with college faculty and staff to enhance fundraising initiatives.
• Maintain visibility and attend internal and community events regularly to support relationship-building and fundraising efforts.
• Collaborate with other staff members as needed.
• Regular attendance during scheduled hours is mandatory and will require flexibility for weeknights and weekends.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Education Credentials

• Bachelors Degree required.

Work Experience

• Three to five years of demonstrated success working in a fundraising environment is required.
• Prior experience in higher education fundraising is preferred.

Skills

• Must be comfortable with gift cultivation and solicitation.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Must be an accomplished, hands-on project manager and embrace working in a team environment.
• Must have the ability to understand the big picture, establish personal and program priorities and possess communication skills to inspire a desired strategy or objective that fits into the overall vision and mission of the GRCC Foundation.
• Attention to detail, follow-up and excellent organizational skills.
• Must be comfortable with data analysis and interpretation to drive fundraising strategies.
• Ability to treat sensitive and confidential information with appropriate discretion.
• Strong sense of urgency, adaptability, flexibility and resourcefulness.

Physical Demands

• Requires long periods of sitting, inputting information into a computer.
• Effectively serve in a customer service office environment.
• Reading, math calculating, writing, listening, speaking and answering the phone or other physical demands of the position.
• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs., bend, twist, and ambulate around campus.

Mental Demands

• High energy level with enthusiasm and interest in helping and supporting staff, students and general public in a demanding work environment.
• Ability to work under pressure. Possess mature judgment, flexibility in regards to interruptions and ability to handle difficult situations.
• Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties with minimal supervision.

Working Conditions

• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
• Ability to work independently and with groups.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, indoor office environment.
• May require occasional evening hours.

BENEFITS

• Health Coverage: Six health insurance plan options, including one with no health insurance premiums
• Time off: Enjoy substantial vacation time
• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership
• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities
• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options, including the state retirement plan or a 401(a) with a 12% employer contribution

NEXT STEPS / APPLICATION PROCESS

• Please fill out an application at https://www.grcc.edu/careers. Submit a cover letter and resume. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting
• Predictive Index Assessment (behavioral & cognitive) REQUIRED: In order to have your application considered, you must complete the assessments:

HIRING PROCESS

• GRCC uses an Evidence Based Selection Process, where we make data driven hiring decisions to help mitigate bias throughout the hiring process. As part of this process, candidates will participate in assessments (cognitive and behavioral), reference checks and interviews
• Individuals with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.

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