About JFCS
JFCS of the Suncoast is a fully accredited, community-based social service organization that delivers a broad range of professional mental health and human services to individuals, families, seniors, adults, children, and veterans on a secular, non-denominational basis. Guided by Jewish values, JFCS empowers individuals and families toward well-being and self-reliance by providing compassionate care, resources, and support to overcome life’s challenges.
Job Summary:
The Director of Development provides strategic leadership for the fundraising, donor engagement, and philanthropic activities of JFCS. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role ensures the financial sustainability of the organization by cultivating strong donor relationships, expanding philanthropic partnerships, and implementing innovative fundraising strategies. The Director of Development is responsible for overseeing major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, grants, and fundraising events, while coordinating with the communication and marketing team to elevate community awareness and donor engagement.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Fundraising & Donor Development
- Lead the planning and execution of the agency’s annual fundraising strategy, ensuring alignment with JFCS’s mission and priorities.
- Serve as a major gift fundraiser by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding key donors and prospects.
- Expand the planned giving program and legacy donor recruitment, including outreach to younger families and new constituencies in Sarasota.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with private foundations, corporations, and philanthropic partners.
- Monitor and manage grant applications, reports, and compliance requirements in partnership with the CEO and program leaders.
Strategic Leadership & Community Engagement
- Provide vision and direction to build a culture of philanthropy across the agency.
- Collaborate with the CEO, Board of Directors, and leadership team to align fundraising goals with organizational priorities.
- Represent JFCS at community events, philanthropic networks, and public forums to promote the mission and impact of the agency.
- Partner with the Communications team to develop compelling case statements, donor communications, and fundraising campaigns.
Events & Campaigns
- Direct the planning and execution of fundraising events, ensuring meaningful donor engagement and return on investment.
- Develop innovative campaigns that expand visibility, attract diverse donors to increase overall giving.
Staff Development & Supervision
- Provide leadership and oversight to assigned staff, which may include Grants/Development Manager, Marketing/Communications staff, and/or external consultants.
- Establish clear goals, accountability, and professional development opportunities for team members.
Operations & Data Management
- Oversee donor database management and reporting systems to ensure accurate, timely donor tracking and performance measurement.
- Utilize data-driven analysis to evaluate donor trends and inform fundraising strategy.
- Ensure compliance with current fundraising best practices and laws impacting charitable giving.