HOW TO APPLY:
Please send a (1) resume, (2) cover letter, (3) writing sample, and (4) the names and contact information of three references to careers@schsonline.org.
SALARY RANGE:
$100-120K, commensurate with experience.
OVERVIEW:
The South Carolina Historical Society seeks an experienced, dynamic development professional to work with the new CEO, Dr. Elizabeth Chew, in all fundraising efforts. The Chief Development Officer (CDO) serves as a key member of the leadership team and an active participant in making strategic decisions affecting the Society. The CDO will help forge new relationships to build the Society’s visibility, impact, and financial resources.
Working closely with the CEO, the CDO will have primary responsibility for growing restricted and unrestricted fundraising to meet operational and programmatic needs through memberships, sponsorships, major gifts, federal and state grants, foundation grants, special events, and corporate support. The CDO will expand and diversify the Society’s donor base/pipeline and work closely with other team members to secure funding for new initiatives.
The incumbent is expected to work occasional evenings and weekends. In-state and out-of-state travel is expected.
MAJOR DUTIES:
- Create and implement an annual fundraising plan.
- Grow a major gifts program including identification, cultivation, and solicitation of major donors.
- Build a planned giving program.
- Direct the annual fund program, including mailings and annual fundraising drives.
- Direct and grow the membership program, including mailings and other communications.
- Oversee the grant application process including research, writing, and reporting.
- Direct any capital campaigns or other major fundraising initiatives.
- Oversee donor database and tracking.
- Serve as liaison to applicable Board committee(s). As a senior officer of the organization, collaborate with the CEO and COO on strategy, operations, and policy development.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
- 5-plus years of professional experience in a nonprofit organization
- Demonstrated success in cultivating and managing relationships with individuals, foundations, government grantmaking agencies, and corporations, with an emphasis on major gifts.
- Awareness of and appreciation for the advantages of historical literacy for all ages
- Knowledge of the philanthropic landscape of South Carolina strongly preferred.
- Interest in and knowledge of American history preferred.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including ability to inspire and motivate others.
- Experience leading staff and volunteers. Strong organizational skills and ability to efficiently execute tasks and plans.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends on occasion and to travel to meet current and potential major donors.
- Positive attitude and good listening ability.
- Knowledge of CharityProud, Microsoft Office, Outlook, and other software used by SCHS preferred.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS:
- A bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years’ success in professional fundraising.
SUPERVISORY CONTROL:
The incumbent works directly for the CEO. The direction provided is general in nature except when changes in SCHS policies are necessary. The incumbent often works independently in the best interest of the SCHS.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The organization’s headquarters is in Charleston, South Carolina in the Fireproof Building at 100 Meeting Street. This position is based in Charleston and focused state-wide.