Development and Community Engagement Director

Job Type: Exempt part-time; 3 days a week with flexibility; work from home
Pay: $35,000 – $45,000 based on experience 
Reports to: Van der Brohe Arboretum Director

Interviews will begin in 2024

Organizational Overview

The Van der Brohe Arboretum is engaged in the conversion of a former 65-acre golf course into an ecological center focused on providing an environment for the cultivation and display of the variety of tree types and species which will be suitable for the location in Two Rivers, WI. The Arboretum intimately links visitors with the natural environment through grounds, exhibitions, and programming.

Position Summary

As Van der Brohe Arboretum is a new and evolving non-profit organization, this position offers the right individual an opportunity to be instrumental in the creating and maintaining of a valuable natural area in Northeast Wisconsin. We are looking to hire an enthusiastic director of development with a passion for building relationships with organizations and individuals to secure philanthropic support that will fuel strategies, projects, and programs. The person will work with the Executive Director and Board to set fundraising goals, lead, and manage a comprehensive annual giving program and fundraising events. The successful applicant will build lasting relationships with donors and keep them informed on how their financial input is having a positive impact on the natural environment. Preferred candidates will be self-motivated, deadline-driven multitaskers.

Duties and Responsibilities 

  1. Collaborate with the Executive Director and board of directors to create and implement fundraising strategies.
  2. Develop and implement fundraising plans to meet annual and long-term fundraising goals.
  3. Cultivate relations with existing and potential donors.
  4. Research and contact prospective donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations.
  5. Prepare and submit proposals to solicit donors.
  6. Manage and track donor records, contact information and history.
  7. Create, organize, and maintain development materials such as grants, brochures, and presentations.
  8. Participate in donor meetings, presentations, and events.
  9. Manage fundraising, fee-based programs, and other special events.
  10. Conduct targeted in-kind donation campaigns.
  11. Develop and implement recognition and stewardship strategies.
  12. Prepare fundraising reports, budget, and other documents.
  13. Stay informed of fundraising trends, techniques, and technology. 
  14. Manage Board members and Volunteers in direct solicitation programs.
  15. Create a respectful reputation for the Arboretum in the community.

Qualifications 

  1. Bachelor’s degree in business, non-profit management, or related field
  2. 4+ years of experience in non-profit work, development, or business field
  3. Superb written, verbal, and interpersonal skills
  4. Excellent understanding of best practices in fundraising and donor relations
  5. Proficient with fundraising software and tools, as well as Microsoft Office applications
  6. Creative self-starter with the ability to work independently and deliver on deadlines.
  7. Proficient with social media platforms
  8. Ability to travel locally.
  9. Occasionally will be required to work weekends and evenings.
  10. On occasion may be required to physically move around the Arboretum on gravel and dirt paths.
  11. Candidate must be authorized to work lawfully in the USA.

Diversity and Inclusion 

The Van der Brohe Arboretum is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible workplace free of discrimination. We are committed to creating a work environment where people from all social identities and backgrounds feel welcome and can thrive. 

Application Deadline and Submission

Interviews for this position will begin in 2024.

Application and references will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled. 

Submit a cover letter and resume to director@vanderbrohearboretum.org

For specific questions regarding the position, please email director@vanderbrohearboretum.org