Director of Development

Full-Time | Hybrid | Leadership Team

Organizational Summary  

The Minnesota Freedom Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for social justice and supporting individuals who are unable to afford bail or immigration bonds. Our focus lies in addressing issues related to pre-trial justice and immigration detention, aiming to combat discrimination and oppression within the criminal justice system. By providing financial assistance to those in need, the organization works towards creating a society that values the freedom and rights of all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or identity. 

Position Overview

The Development Director is a dynamic leader responsible for driving the financial support and partnership initiatives of our organization. Leading with enthusiasm, the Director plans, organizes, implements, and evaluates various development activities, including grants, major gifts, events, awareness campaigns, and direct mail efforts. This role serves as a crucial partner to the Executive Director and leadership team, playing a key role in cultivating and engaging key stakeholders. The Director identifies funding opportunities, prepares compelling proposals, and coordinates fundraising events and campaigns to ensure the organization's continued growth and success. With a focus on relationship-building and strategic planning, the Development Director plays an integral role in advancing the mission and impact of the organization. 

Primary Responsibilities

  • Lead the development efforts of the organization, aiming to secure financial support and partnerships. 

  • Plan, organize, implement, and evaluate various development activities, including but not limited to grants, major gifts, events, awareness campaigns, and direct mail campaigns. 

  • Develop and maintain relationships with donors, partners, and other stakeholders to sustain and grow support for the organization. 

  • Identify funding opportunities and develop strategies to pursue them effectively. 

  • Collect, organize, and maintain accurate data  

  • Prepare compelling grant proposals, major gift solicitations, and other fundraising materials. 

  • Coordinate fundraising events and campaigns, ensuring their successful execution and impact. 

  • Monitor and analyze fundraising performance metrics, making adjustments as necessary to optimize results. 

  • Stay informed about trends and best practices in fundraising and philanthropy. 

  • Collaborate with the communications and marketing team to align messaging and strategies across development efforts. 

  • Embracing technology and utilizing collaborative tools to facilitate effective teamwork and project management in a hybrid work environment.  

  • Manage the development budget and resources efficiently.  

  • Represent the organization professionally at meetings, events, and networking opportunities. 

Skills & Knowledge

  • Proven experience in fundraising, development, or related roles within the nonprofit sector. 

  • Strong understanding of fundraising principles and techniques, including grant writing, major gifts solicitation, and event planning. 

  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate the organization's mission and goals persuasively. 

  • Ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including donors, board members, volunteers, and community partners. 

  • Highly organized with excellent project management skills and attention to detail. 

  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment. 

  • Proficiency in relevant software and tools for donor management, fundraising campaigns, and financial tracking. 

  • Enthusiasm for the organization's mission and a commitment to its success. 

  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines. 

  • Previous experience in a leadership or managerial role preferred. 

  • Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing fundraising activities. 

Requirements

  • Available to work evenings and weekends to attend board meetings, events etc  

  • Valid Drivers license  

  • Ability to thrive in hybrid work environment 

Salary

The salary range for this position begins at $90,000 and is negotiable above that, commensurate with experience.  

We understand how vital our work is and at the same time understand the toll engaged activism can take. Our goal is to retain staff, and we believe that having a robust benefits offering is vital in meeting that goal. Our benefits include four weeks paid vacation in addition to 13 office holidays; plus earned sick and safe time, 401(k) Plan with employer match, short-term and long-term disability insurance, medical and dental insurance is currently provided, and ongoing training/educational opportunities. 

To Apply 

Applications will be accepted until March 20. Applications must include (1) cover letter, (2) resume, and (3) a list of three references. Please submit your application to hr@mnfreedomfund.org with the subject line “Development Director”.   

MFF is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual with a disability and need assistance applying online, please e-mail jana@mnfreedomfund.org. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive additional information regarding how to request an accommodation for the interview process.   

Minnesota Freedom Fund is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment for all employees. We actively seek to recruit, develop, and retain talented individuals from all backgrounds. Diversity is a fundamental value of our organization, and we believe that fostering an inclusive workplace enhances our ability to achieve our mission.