Director, Donor Stewardship

A cover letter and either a writing sample or prospectus, specifically written for high worth donors, are required for consideration.

Location

Remote or hybrid schedule from an EDF U.S. office.

Duration

: This is a three year fixed-term position, with full benefits and the possibility for extension

Overall Function

The Director, Donor Stewardship is responsible for developing and implementing a variety of short- and long-term priority stewardship initiatives for the Development department. The Director serves as a strategic partner to frontline fundraisers as well as operations and mission teams throughout EDF. They will be responsible for leading the effective management of donor stewardship policies and processes, including developing and implementing a centralized donor stewardship strategy.

The Director reports to the Associate Vice President, Development Communications and Donor Stewardship and serves as part of the leadership team advising the AVP. The Director supervises a Senior Manager and Operations Coordinator.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead multiple, simultaneous stewardship initiatives and projects that are consistent with Development’s strategic priorities
• Partner with frontline fundraisers and mission teams to develop creative, inspirational and customized stewardship products for top donors (for example videos, photo books and other tangibles that uniquely represent donors’ relationship with EDF)
• Develop and implement a centralized donor stewardship strategy
• Develop and oversee management of donor stewardship policies and processes
• Supervise and mentor a small team producing a wide range of donor stewardship materials, setting priorities and strategic direction
• Collaborate with Development Communications team on managing workflow for writing projects, mass emails, and other donor related activities
• Build relationships and collaborate with the Development Leadership Team and portfolio managers to produce stewardship materials
• Collaborate with the Donor Engagement team to develop materials related to those activities when needed
• Collaborate with HR and finance on endowment related topics and issues
• Maintain a working knowledge of the philanthropic priorities and activities of the organization’s top donors
• Participate in advancing EDF’s organizational effectiveness and culture goals, so people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address environmental and organizational challenges in ways that align with EDF values

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum 10 years of development/marketing/communications experience. A Master’s degree or equivalent may substitute for up to 2 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of environmental issues and/or related science and policy issues
• Understanding of current principles and trends in fundraising, donor stewardship and non-profit management
• Demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking, planning, organization, time management and project management skills
• Outstanding interpersonal skills, including the ability to work well with a wide range of colleagues across geographies
• Experience working in a matrixed organization with multiple internal/external stakeholders and teams and consultants spanning the globe
• Proven ability to use communications as a tool to achieve goals
• Strong team management and mentoring skills
• Superb strategy, writing, editing and communications skills
• Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.
• Sense of humor and ability to lead with kindness
• Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive mindset and approach with rapidly shifting priorities and a fast-paced work environment