Development Director

North Santa Barbara County, Mid Santa Barbara County, South Santa Barbara County
Santa Barbara
Full Time
SB ACT

Position Overview

SB ACT has evolved into an entity that not only facilitates collective impact collaboratives to address complex social issues such as homelessness and systemic inequities, but also supports strengthening the capacity of community-based organizations to be able to effectively contribute to those collaboratives and effect real, measurable change in the lives of our marginalized populations.

The Development Director will lead and oversee all aspects of fund development and donor relations to advance the mission of SB ACT. This role is responsible for building and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes major gifts, corporate partnerships, grants, and donor engagement initiatives. The Development Director will report directly to the Executive Director and work closely with the board of directors and senior leadership to cultivate sustainable financial resources to support SB ACT’s ongoing growth and impact.

 

Compensation

This position offers a competitive salary of $120,000 per year, commensurate with experience, and includes a benefits package.

 

Responsibilities

The Development Director will provide day-to-day support for SB ACT’s collaborative initiatives and general operational support for the organization. Key responsibilities include:

Fund development and management

  • Design and implement a strategic fundraising plan, including major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, annual appeals, and planned giving
  • Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with key donors, corporate sponsors, and foundation partners to ensure continued engagement and investment in SB ACT’s mission.
  • Collaborate with the Executive Director and key board members to create and manage donor recognition strategies.
  • Lead the development and execution of special events, donor cultivation activities, and other fundraising initiatives.
  • Research and identify new funding opportunities to diversify and increase SB ACT’s revenue streams.
  • Managing donor database and working with SB ACT leadership for ongoing donor communications
  • Overseeing grants and contracting calendar
  • Writing and submitting grant applications and/or working with other SB ACT staff/contracted workers for grant submissions
  • Working with SB ACT leadership to develop supporting materials for grant applications, including budgets, financial reports,

    data visuals, letters of support and more

  • Monitoring grant reporting with SB ACT leadership as required

Communications and Donor Relations

  • Oversee donor communications and ensure the timely preparation and distribution of newsletters, reports, and fundraising materials.
  • Preparing written materials for a broad donor audience, including data visualizations, press releases, infographics, social media posts, and more.
  • Develop compelling donor proposals, presentations, and engagement strategies to inspire and retain a broad donor base.
  • Foster relationships with local and national media to promote SB ACT’s initiatives and fundraising events.
  • Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to align donor communications with broader organizational

    messaging.

  • Overseeing design and writing of Annual Report
  • Developing communications materials as projects evolve, potentially including summary documents, brochures, FAQs, and

    other items

  • Developing web and social media strategy
  • Compiling and maintaining list of press clippings and articles
  • Creating press strategy, including draft press releases, coordinating with media outlets

Financials and Administrative Management

  • Create and manage the development budget, ensuring alignment with organizational financial goals and donor expectations.
  • Work closely with the finance team to ensure the accurate recording and reporting of all development activities and funds

    received.

  • Monitor and report on fundraising progress, adjusting strategies as necessary to meet and exceed targets.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and ethical standards related to fundraising.
  • Working with SB ACT’s Associate Director to ensure timely completion of annual tax returns
  • Working with SB ACT’s operation team to ensure timely completion of annual budget
  • Managing income and expenses, including depositing checks and appropriately logging business expenses

    Board Reporting and Collaboration

  • Provide regular reports to the board of directors on fundraising progress, challenges, and future plans.
  • Partner with the board and Executive Director to create a culture of philanthropy within the organization.
  • Serve as the primary staff liaison to the board’s development committee, supporting their efforts to engage in fundraising

    activities and donor cultivation.

  • Collaborate with board members to engage their networks in SB ACT’s development efforts.

    Team Leadership and Reporting Relationships

  • Supervise and mentor the development staff, including managing performance, setting goals, and providing professional development opportunities.
  • Build out and manage the development team as the organization grows, ensuring a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
  • Report directly to the Executive Director and provide regular updates on development efforts.
  • Work closely with the administrative team, including Kai & Landon, during the initial stages of the role until a full development

    team is in place.

 

Work Experience/Requirements

  • Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in development or fundraising, with at least 3-5 years in a senior leadership role.
  • Proven track record of raising significant funds through major gifts, grants, and corporate sponsorships.
  • Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence and engage a wide range of donors and

    partners.

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience in crafting compelling proposals and presentations.
  • Ability to lead and motivate a team, with demonstrated experience in staff management and development.
  • Strategic thinker with strong organizational and planning skills.
  • Experience using donor databases (Keela preferred) and familiarity with donor research tools.
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field; CFRE certification preferred.
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