Chief Development Officer (GSP)

EPIP; San Antonio, Austin (TX, TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A visionary nonprofit organization seeks a Chief Development Officer to lead fundraising efforts and strategic initiatives for land and water conservation. This role is perfect for an experienced leader with a passion for environmental protection and a proven track record in securing significant philanthropic support. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with the CEO and board, guiding a dedicated team to achieve ambitious fundraising goals while representing the organization to funders and the community. Join this inspiring mission to protect vital natural resources and make a lasting impact in the Texas Hill Country.

Benefits

Flexible Schedule

Competitive Salary

Benefits Package

Qualifications

• Degree in relevant field required.
• 5+ years of experience in fundraising with 7-figure gifts.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising initiatives and manage development team.
• Engage with diverse donor groups and oversee grant requests.

Skills

Fundraising

Team Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Project Management

Communication Skills

Public Speaking

Networking

Education

Bachelor's Degree or Higher

Job description

The Texas Hill Country between San Antonio and Austin west of Interstate 35 is among the fastest growing regions in the country. Home to one of the most prolific freshwater sources in the world – the Edwards Aquifer – and to one of the largest concentrations of unique and endangered species in the world, this landscape along the eastern edge of the Hill Country is as unique and sensitive as it is beautiful.

The natural areas in this region are under pressure as never before from a large and growing influx of people who are drawn to it for many of the same reasons it has drawn people for over 12,000 years: good water, natural abundance, beauty, mild climate. Our answer is the Great Springs Project, a bold effort to create a corridor of conservation and watershed protection lands between San Antonio and Austin.

The Great Springs Project, Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit, has offices in San Antonio and Austin.

The Role of the Chief Development Officer

Job Purpose

Plan and lead all aspects of fundraising and the development team while collaborating with the CEO to develop and implement revenue strategies for Great Springs Project.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Chief Development Officer (CDO) serves as a vital leadership team member and an active participant in making strategic decisions affecting the Great Springs Project. The ideal candidate for Chief Development Officer is an experienced, entrepreneurial leader for a visionary regional land and water conservation initiative who will lead external communications and fundraising success for Great Springs Project.

Ideal Candidate

• Experience with and ability to raise funds through various combinations of philanthropy, investment and/or public funding sources
• Ability to work cooperatively as well as lead, motivate and mentor a team of staff and/or volunteers for success
• Background in development, finance, business, nonprofit, or governmental sectors
• Experience directing a major program or projects of strategic importance
• Ability to think both strategically and operationally
• Strong written and verbal communication and project management skills are essential
• Personal passion for land and water protection and conservation

Primary Responsibilities

• Support and partner with the CEO and board members on all major fundraising initiatives
• Oversee and research funding sources and trends
• Assist in the development of grant requests from both public and private sources
• Ensure adequate funding for operations and growth
• Interface and engage diverse donor groups and direct fundraising efforts
• Have primary responsibility for development and execution of all proposals
• Hire, train, develop, lead, and mentor the development team
• Manage and mentor development staff
• Provide visionary leadership and management
• Represent the organization and its mission to funders, supporters, and the community

Qualifications

• Degree from an accredited college or university (Bachelor's or higher) in a relevant field
• 5+ years of demonstrated ability to cultivate and successfully solicit 7-figure philanthropic gifts
• Demonstrated ability to apply successful fundraising techniques
• Excellent communication (oral and written) and public speaking skills
• Ability to work both independently and as a team player

Physical Demands

While performing this job employees may occasionally be required to talk, stand or sit for long periods of time, walk, climb stairs, key data, stoop, twist, bend, crawl, speak and hear. As GSP’s mission focus includes hiking, rivers and springs, it is expected that candidates for this role actively participate in hiking and swimming.

Additional Information

Compensation

• Competitive salary & benefits package to be negotiated with qualified finalist(s)

Time & Location

• Full time, with flexible schedule
• Preferred residence in San Antonio, Austin or anywhere along the I-35 corridor with the ability to travel frequently within the region.

To Apply

To apply, please submit a letter of interest, resume with a minimum of three professional references, and if desired, letter(s) of support to [e-mail]