Development Director, Tree House Books

Posted by Tree House Books on October 15, 2024

The Development Director (“DD”) is responsible for the effective organization and leadership of all development efforts at Tree House Books. Working closely with the Executive Director and other key THB leadership, the DD will spearhead development efforts as Tree House Books continues to grow. The DD is a key external face of the organization, and as necessary, acts as a liaison between the organization and donors, foundations (grant funders), vendors, and other contributors. The DD works closely with the Executive Director in all facets of communication with the community. The DD also plays an important role in successfully evaluating and reporting fundraising outcomes.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Development Director reports directly to the Executive Director and collaborates directly with the Managing Director as part of the leadership team.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

The Development Director’s specific duties include, but are not limited to:

• Working with the THB Board of Directors and Executive Director to develop and execute Tree House Books’ annual fundraising plan

• Taking a lead role in the execution of the Expansion Fundraising Plan including general oversight of all fund development activities

• Securing financial contributions and grants  from individuals, foundations and corporations

• Managing the implementation of Little Green Light (donor management system) and oversee staff/volunteers/interns responsible for data entry and gift processing

• Developing and maintaining ongoing relationships with major donors through prospecting, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities

• Creating and executing a strategy for a large, sustained base of annual individual donors  via donor acquisition, prospecting, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies to increase annual revenue goals year-over-year

• Overseeing planning and implementation of special events

• Developing and tracking proposals and reports for all foundation and corporate fundraising, and any individual donors, as may be required

• Writing grant proposals and reports

• Reporting to the board on goals and strategy

• Educating board and staff on development trends, activities, and goals

Volunteer/Intern Management:

• Manage periodic interns and volunteers, including setting goals and providing educational feedback

EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree appreciated, but not necessary, preferably in English, writing, or similar discipline.
• Previous work in Development for small to midsize (or growing) organizations.
• Knowledgeable about working with communities of color in urban environments.
• Previous work or background in grassroots, community organization, or social work.

SKILLS

• Strong organizational, time management, and planning skills.
• Proficient in basic Google Docs and the Google Drive operations.
• Must have an intermediate understanding of how to access and use social media sites, Squarespace, Mailchimp, and non-profit management platforms such as Volunteermatch, United Way, Great NonProfits, and Idealist.
• Digital record keeping skills (Database & Program Tracking).
• Ability to operate a variety of office equipment, such as multi-line phones, copier, scanner, etc.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to community-led, decolonizing practices.

CAPABILITIES

• Demonstrated capability to conduct oneself in a calm and professional demeanor when dealing with people and/or with difficult situations.
• Must be self-initiating, exercise good judgment, and be able to work with minimal supervision.
• Must possess excellent organizational skills, interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated capability to effectively communicate orally and in writing.
• Ability to work well with a diverse group of staff and volunteers.
• Willingness to adjust hours to accommodate the needs of the job.
• Ability to effectively manage a wide array of tasks, projects, and responsibilities.
• Ability to work productively in an unstructured environment with frequent interruptions.

STATUS & COMPENSATION

This is a ¾ time (30 hours/week) position, with the intention to become full time, within a period of approximately one year, given completion of benchmarks. This position starts at $50,000 and includes employer-contributed health care.

This position has some flexibility for in-person and remote work. Must have some evening and weekend availability. Must be willing to work in the office regularly. Will work with the right candidate for appropriate balance.

TO APPLY

Please send a resume and cover letter* to Executive Director Michael Brix at [email protected]. (We are posting this position across several websites – the only applications we’ll review will be sent to the email address listed.)

*Successful cover letters will connect your personal experience and passion for the work of Tree House Books with demonstrated track record of success in one or more of the “General Responsibilities” items

Tree House Books is an equal opportunity employer and values equity, diversity, and inclusion in hiring. We encourage BIPOC, people from historically-underrepresented and oppressed communities, and our North Philadelphia neighborhood, to apply.