Senior Director of Development & Public Affairs
$130,000–$130,000 year
Hybrid · Pasadena, California, United States
Job Summary
Senior Director of Development and Public Affairs leads the organization’s fundraising and development efforts, including foundation and corporate giving, government funding opportunities, major gifts, donor engagement, and strategic partnerships. Oversees public affairs, including communications, media relations, branding, and external relations to elevate visibility and impact. Collaborates with the C-Suite, Board, funders, and partners to secure resources, shape strategy, and advance the mission. Responsibilities include developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising plans, grant proposals, donor communications, and sponsorship opportunities; managing organizational messaging, campaigns, digital communications, and stakeholder engagement; recruiting and mentoring development, communications, and public affairs staff; managing budgets and performance metrics; ensuring donor compliance and reporting. Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred), 8–10 years in leadership roles related to fundraising and communications, proven success in securing major grants and sponsorships, strong written and verbal communication, strategic thinking, donor cultivation, grant management, data analysis, and project management. Compensation: $130,000 annually.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration, communications, marketing, business, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred
- Minimum of 8–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in fundraising, development, communications, public affairs, or external relations
- Experience securing major grants, corporate sponsorships, government funding, and philanthropic investments
- Experience developing and implementing strategic communications, media, and public engagement initiatives
- Experience managing staff, departmental budgets, and cross-functional initiatives
- Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Strong strategic thinking, relationship-building, and negotiation skills
- Knowledge of fundraising best practices, donor cultivation strategies, and grant management processes
- Ability to analyze data, track outcomes, and use metrics to guide strategic decision-making
- Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Commitment to the organization’s mission, values, and a collaborative, equity-centered workplace culture
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