Director of Development

Asheville Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Director of Development to join our team. The Director of Development plays a crucial role in advancing the mission and vision of the garden by leading fundraising efforts, cultivating relationships with donors, identifying and applying for grants and developing long term plans to support growth and sustainability of the organization.

Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising:
   • Develop and execute fundraising strategies to support annual operating needs, special projects, and long-term sustainability.
   • Identify and cultivate relationships with individual donors, foundations, corporations and the greater Asheville community.
   • Identify, apply for and manage grants processes.
2. Donor & Member Relations:
   • Implement strategies to attract and retain new members & donors, including major gifts and planned giving programs.
   • Manage communications with ABG members to facilitate timely renewals, retention of members, provide membership materials and tax receipts to members & donors.
   • Track the membership roll, retention and new member campaigns.
   • Steward and strengthen relationships with current members & donors, ensuring ongoing engagement and support.
   • Organize and host donor cultivation events and activities.
3. Board, Staff & Volunteer Engagement:
   • Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to identify and engage prospective donors and provide support to board members in their fundraising roles.
   • Work with the Board of Directors on messaging and communications for the organization.
   • Work closely with the Garden Manager & Operations Manager to understand the day to day needs of the organization.
   • Work closely with ABG volunteers and cultivate a friendly working environment incorporating volunteers skills and labor where possible.
4. Marketing and Communication:
   • Public speaking at Garden events and in the community to further the mission of the Garden and engage potential donors.
   • Developing materials that effectively communicate the mission and impact of the Asheville Botanical Garden to members, donors, visitors and the local community.
   • Utilize digital and print platforms, social media and email marketing to enhance ABG messaging, fundraising and donor engagement.
5. Financial Management:
   • Monitor and report on fundraising goals, progress, and outcomes to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
   • Work with the Treasurer and Operations Manager on a fundraising budget and overall organization budget, ensuring efficient use of resources.
6. Strategic Planning:
   • Contribute to organizational strategic planning processes, particularly regarding fundraising and donor development.
   • Work on with board and staff on the development of a Master Plan.
   •  
   • Qualifications:
     • Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, communications, or related field.
     • Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a proven track record of successfully securing major gifts and grants.
     • Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with ABG staff, volunteers & Board of Directors.
     • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities.
     • Experience with donor & member management software and digital fundraising tools.
     • Excellent organizational skills and ability to perform work in a busy environment.
     • Passion for environmental conservation, education, horticulture and native plants.