Are you a fundraising trailblazer with a passion for making a difference? First Descents (FD) is seeking an inspiring and experienced Director of Philanthropy to lead our major gift and annual fund efforts, driving our mission to deliver the healing power of adventure to the communities we serve.

As the Director of Philanthropy, you’ll take center stage in shaping and executing innovative fundraising strategies to connect donors with our life-changing programs. You’ll oversee a diverse portfolio of individual and family office donors, cultivating relationships and securing gifts ranging from $10,000 to $250,000. Working closely with the VP of Advancement, Board of Directors and senior leadership, you’ll ensure that every donor feels the impact of their generosity through meaningful engagement and stewardship.

We’re looking for a dynamic leader with a proven track record in securing major gifts, exceptional relationship-building skills and a passion for fostering a culture of giving. You’ll be a key player in designing bold fundraising campaigns, telling the story of our mission in a way that inspires action and collaborating across departments to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals.

If you’re a strategic thinker with top-notch analytical skills, experience managing high-performing teams and expertise in CRM platforms (Salesforce preferred), this role is your opportunity to shine. A passion for cancer supportive care, community building and adventure is essential—you’ll need it to connect authentically with the incredible donors and communities we serve.

This position supervises a Development Coordinator and a Development Officer in the future. This is a unique opportunity to lead and innovate within a passionate, mission-driven organization. Ready to take the reins and create transformative impact? Let’s change lives together!

Responsibilities

Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet and exceed annual revenue goals.
Identify, cultivate and solicit major gift opportunities ($10k+) from individuals, corporations and foundations.
Establish and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and partners to enhance the organization's visibility and philanthropic mission.
Strengthen First Descents’ stature as a leader in cancer-supportive care amongst donors and family offices in Colorado and beyond.
Manage FD’s annual fund, in collaboration with the marketing team, to drive revenue, donor retention and moves-management.
Oversee donor relations and stewardship efforts to ensure ongoing engagement and satisfaction of current donors.
In concert with the VP of Advancement, manage and lead the philanthropy team, providing guidance, training and support to achieve team and individual goals.
Prepare and present regular reports on fundraising progress and outcomes to the Board of Directors and senior leadership.
Collaborate with other departments to integrate fundraising efforts with marketing and communication initiatives.
Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in fundraising, donor relations or philanthropy management.
Proven track record of securing and managing major gifts and successful fundraising campaigns.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate the organization's mission and impact to diverse audiences.
Demonstrated leadership and team management experience, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
Proficiency in fundraising software and donor management systems; experience with data analysis and reporting preferred.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by donor schedules and events.
Representative of FD’s Core Values & Code of Conduct.
Strong passion for FD’s mission and support for its long-term vision and goals.
Willingness to travel 25% of the time to advance key relationships nationally.

Inside Details

This is a full-time, exempt, hybrid position based in Denver, Colorado with the requirement to be in the office two days per week, and any additional time required to complete tasks in person. This position will require significant travel and after-hours commitments. The Director of Philanthropy reports to the VP of Advancement and supervises a Development Coordinator and a Development Officer in the future.

We offer competitive health benefits, 4% employer retirement matching, 25 days of PTO annually, paid parental leave, an annual professional development stipend, monthly health and wellness stipend, monthly home office stipend, staff retreats and outings, and trips to our programs to experience FD’s work first-hand.

The salary range for this position is $75,000-$96,500.

If you’re passionate about contributing your skills and enthusiasm to help us serve countless more young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions, we want to hear from you!

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

First Descents is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, caregiver status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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Director of Philanthropy (Development)