Position Title: Development Director
Reports To: Executive Director/CEO
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Status: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Development Director will lead and grow Unity Shoppe’s fundraising efforts, ensuring the organization has the resources needed to serve individuals and families facing food insecurity across Santa Barbara County. This role is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, events, and donor engagement.
The Development Director will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and key volunteers to strengthen relationships, expand the donor base, and increase overall revenue. This position plays a critical role in advancing Unity Shoppe’s mission of providing food, clothing, and essential resources with dignity, respect, and choice.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth
- Develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan aligned with organizational goals
- Set and achieve revenue targets across multiple funding streams
- Identify opportunities to grow and diversify revenue, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation support
- Track and report on fundraising performance, adjusting strategies as needed
Major Gifts & Donor Relations
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and prospects
- Build strong, long-term relationships with individuals, families, and community leaders
- Partner with the Executive Director on high-level donor engagement and solicitations
- Develop personalized stewardship strategies to increase donor retention and giving levels
Planned Giving & Legacy Development
- Develop and grow Unity Shoppe’s planned giving/legacy program
- Identify, cultivate, and steward donors interested in including Unity Shoppe in their estate plans
- Work with donors and their advisors on bequests, trusts, and other legacy gifts
- Create and implement strategies to promote planned giving opportunities within the community
- Ensure proper documentation, recognition, and stewardship of legacy donors
Corporate Sponsorships & Partnerships
- Secure and manage corporate sponsorships for key events, including the Annual Telethon, Granada Concert, and Pickleball Tournament
- Build relationships with local and regional businesses to expand community investment
- Create and present sponsorship proposals and ensure fulfillment of benefits
Grants & Foundation Support
- Identify, research, and pursue grant opportunities
- Oversee grant writing, submission, and reporting processes
- Maintain relationships with foundation partners and ensure compliance with funding requirements
Events & Campaigns
- Lead fundraising strategy for signature events, including the Annual Telethon and other campaigns
- Collaborate with staff, Board members, and Ambassadors to maximize event revenue and engagement
- Oversee donor communications related to campaigns, appeals, and special initiatives
Board & Volunteer Engagement
- Support and engage the Board of Directors in fundraising efforts
- Work with Unity Shoppe Ambassadors and volunteers to expand outreach and donor connections
- Provide guidance and tools to help Board members and volunteers successfully participate in fundraising
Communications & Stewardship
- Oversee donor communications, including newsletters, appeals, and impact reports
- Ensure messaging reflects Unity Shoppe’s mission and impact with a strong, heart-forward voice
- Collaborate with marketing to highlight stories, outcomes, and community impact
Data & Systems
- Utilize donor management systems to track giving, engagement, and trends
- Ensure accurate donor records and reporting
- Analyze data to inform strategy and improve performance
Qualifications
- 5+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience, with a track record of meeting or exceeding revenue goals
- Experience in major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and event fundraising
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills
- Experience working with or supporting a Board of Directors
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work in a fast-paced environment
- Passion for Unity Shoppe’s mission and commitment to dignity, respect, and community
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a multi-program nonprofit organization
- Familiarity with the Santa Barbara philanthropic community
- Experience with donor databases/Donor Perfect and Donor Search systems
Compensation
- Salary range: $95,000 – $110,000 DOE
- Benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 403b, life insurance, and vacation pay.
Why Join Unity Shoppe
For more than 100 years, Unity Shoppe has been a trusted resource for individuals and families in Santa Barbara County. Joining our team means being part of a mission-driven organization that provides not just essential resources, but dignity, hope, and a path forward for thousands in our community.
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