Development & Communications Director

Development & Communications Director Job SummaryA mission-driven nonprofit organization in Grand Rapids is seeking a Development & Communications Director to lead fundraising strategy and oversee communications efforts. This role partners closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to support long-term financial sustainability and organizational growth, with a focus on donor engagement, major gifts, and grant management. The position also collaborates with internal leadership and external partners to execute marketing and branding initiatives that strengthen overall visibility and impact.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with organizational goalsIdentify, cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partnersLead major gift initiatives and planned giving efforts in partnership with the CEO and BoardOversee grant lifecycle including research, writing, submission, and reportingManage funding opportunities across government, foundation, and corporate sourcesPlan and execute fundraising events, including logistics, vendor coordination, and volunteer managementSupport broader campaign strategies to increase donor engagement and revenueCollaborate with internal stakeholders and external marketing partners to implement branding and communications strategyOversee development of fundraising and marketing materials (newsletters, annual reports, social media, etc.)Develop and manage the development budget and track fundraising performance metricsMaintain accurate donor records within CRM systemsRecruit, train, and support volunteers involved in advancement effortsProvide oversight to development-related committees and consultantsSupport additional initiatives as directed by the CEOAdditional DetailsLocation: Grand Rapids, MICompensation: $63,000 – $70,000Position Type: Full-time (40 hours/week; some evenings/weekends required), ExemptQualificationsRequired:Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, marketing, communications, or related field3+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience with a demonstrated track record of meeting or exceeding goalsProven success in grant writing and grant managementStrong written, verbal, and public speaking communication skillsAbility to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors and board membersStrong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skillsExperience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, DonorPerfect) and digital fundraising toolsDemonstrated ability to work both independently and collaborativelyPreferred:Established network within the greater Grand Rapids communityHow to Apply:Applications will be accepted until a Development & Communications Director is appointed. Expressions of interest and candidate applications will be treated with complete confidentiality.Interested candidates should apply here and include their resume & letter of interest.Inquiries concerning this position may be directed to susan.delauter@srgexpress.com.About Specialized Recruiting Group, an Express Employment Professionals Company:Specialized Recruiting Group is a professional and executive search firm specializing in engineering, operations, human resources, and other critical roles. Since 1996, we’ve connected talented professionals with companies that align with their values and goals. We are driven to help people succeed and are passionate about making a positive impact.