Co-Director of Community Engagement (Philanthropy)

The Blue Bench • Full-time • Denver, Colorado • 2w ago

Position: Co-Director of Community Engagement (Philanthropy)
Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director

About The Blue Bench:
At The Blue Bench, we are dedicated to eliminating sexual assault and mitigating its impact on individuals, their loved ones, and our community. Through comprehensive advocacy, prevention, and care, we strive for a world free from sexual violence—a world where no one suffers as a result. Inspired by the courage of survivors, activists, and community leaders, we have helped hundreds of thousands in the Denver area move from victimhood to survival.

Job Purpose:
The Blue Bench is seeking a passionate and strategic Co-Director of Community Engagement (Philanthropy) to lead our fundraising initiatives and raise awareness about our mission. This role will focus on building philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, and foundations, ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of our fundraising efforts through strong leadership and mentorship.

The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic advocate for our mission, with a proven track record in fundraising and coalition-building in challenging environments. They will possess a sense of urgency for funding critical programs and communicate effectively with potential donors. Empathy, collaboration, and innovation are key traits for success in this role.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Strategy & Management
-Ensure the success of the Community Engagement department by co-leading alongside Co-Director of Community Engagement, Education, to develop and implement strategic initiatives that foster community partnerships and drive organizational impact.
-Lead and mentor the fundraising team, including direct management of the Development Manager and collaboration with the Executive Director and Communications Coordinator.
- Collaborate with leadership to develop and implement an ambitious fundraising plan encompassing major gifts, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and special events.
- Build and maintain a robust portfolio of investors, ensuring effective solicitation and relationship management.
- Coordinate meetings with current and prospective donors to strengthen relationships and secure funding.
- Drive progress towards fundraising goals outlined in our strategic plan, utilizing metrics and outcomes for accountability.

Corporate and Foundation Relations
- Develop and execute a corporate partnership strategy while managing a portfolio of prospective corporate supporters.
- Partner with the Executive Director and grants team to identify, cultivate, and steward grant opportunities from various sources.
-Support the Co-Director of Community Engagement (Education) in ensuring financial viability of the SHIELD program, focusing recruiting new partners and stewarding corporate relationships.
-Build on corporate and foundation engagement strategy through volunteer programs, events, and training initiatives to enhance community involvement and support.

Annual & Individual Giving
- Collaborate with the Communications Manager to design and implement direct donor mailings, fundraising appeals, and online giving strategies.
- Support annual fundraising events, identifying and cultivating sponsors and ensuring their successful execution.
- Utilize digital platforms effectively to enhance fundraising efforts and track progress toward giving goals.

Leadership and Organizational Involvement
- Serve as a key member of the leadership team, actively participating in organizational activities, staff meetings, and training sessions.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Commitment to The Blue Bench’s mission and the transformative work of addressing sexual violence.
- Strong understanding of equity and justice issues, with a dedication to fostering an inclusive environment.
- Proven success in nonprofit fundraising, with experience managing portfolios and building relationships.
- Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills, coupled with meticulous attention to detail.
- Strong collaborative problem-solving abilities and a proactive work style, with the capacity to work flexible hours as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:
- At least 5 years of direct fundraising experience, with two or more years' experience in management
- Experience in developing and nurturing relationships with individual donors, corporations, and foundations.
- Proven ability to set and achieve organizational fundraising goals.
- Confidence in building and managing relationships with high-wealth individuals.
- Familiarity with fundraising management software (e.g., Bloomerang) or a demonstrated ability to learn new tools.
- Experience working with nonprofit boards and committees.

Compensation:
This is an exempt position with a salary range of $75,000 - $80,000 annually, negotiable based on experience and qualifications. Additional compensation may be provided for candidates fluent in languages other than English.

The Blue Bench is an equal opportunity employer committed to a policy of non-discrimination. We strongly encourage applications from people with disabilities, people of color, Indigenous individuals, and LGBTQ+ candidates.

Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including a $300 employer contribution towards fully funded medical plans, paid dental and life insurance, long-term disability, and additional coverage options. Our generous leave policies include paid vacation, sick/wellness time, paid holidays, and flexible work schedules in a hybrid work environment.

Application Process:
To apply, please submit your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to [email protected]. Include “Co-Director of Community Engagement” in the subject line.