DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

JCC Association of North America; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Vision and Dental coverage

Life Insurance 403(b) with match

Health Savings Account

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Employee Program Discounts

Job summary

The JCC Association of North America is seeking a passionate Development Director in Nashville to lead fundraising initiatives. This role is vital for sustaining programs and advancing the mission through donor relationships and comprehensive strategies.

Ideal candidates will possess 5+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, strong communication skills, and the ability to engage a diverse community. The position offers health benefits and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive fundraising/development experience in a nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success in individual giving, major gifts, grants, and event-based fundraising.
• Grant writing experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage a multi-channel annual fundraising plan.
• Partner with Finance to track and report fundraising benchmarks.
• Manage relationships with mid-level and smaller donors.

Skills

Fundraising/development experience

Strong written and verbal communication

Relationship-building

Organizational skills

Understanding of Jewish community and culture

Education

Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field

Tools

Donor management systems (CRM)

Job description

Location and Job Title

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Gordon JCC
801 Percy Warner Blvd
Nashville, TN 37205

Principal Responsibilities

The Gordon JCC is seeking a passionate and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs and community impact. This role is central to advancing our mission by building meaningful donor relationships, securing philanthropic support, and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy across individual giving, events, grants, and sponsorships. As a key partner to the Executive Director, Board, and leadership team, the Development Director will not only meet annual fundraising goals but also cultivate a culture of philanthropy that engages donors, members, and the broader community.

Job type: Full-time

Benefits

• Health, Vision and Dental coverage available
• Life Insurance 403(b) with match
• Health Savings Account
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• Employee Program Discounts/ Professional Development Opportunities

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field (preferred, not mandatory).
• 5+ years of progressive fundraising/development experience in a nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success in individual giving, major gifts, grants, and event-based fundraising.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with grant writing experience preferred. Excellent relationship-builder with the ability to engage donors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with donor management systems (CRM).
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable balancing multiple projects.
• A passion for working as part of a broader team of professionals dedicated to enhancing Jewish community life in Nashville.
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, Jewish community and culture.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stay alert while sitting, standing, or walking for various lengths of time.
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and manage a multi-channel annual fundraising plan with clear goals.
• Partner with Finance to track and report progress against fundraising benchmarks.
• Partner with the Executive Director on major donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Manage relationships with mid-level and smaller donors, ensuring strong engagement and retention. Lead the annual appeal and donor recognition initiatives.
• Plan donor appreciation events and maintain accurate donor records.
• Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals to foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Manage grants calendar, ensuring timely applications and reports.
• Lead planning and execution of Big Night Out gala and other key fundraising events.
• Secure sponsors and donors while collaborating with program and marketing teams to maximize impact.
• Partner with staff to integrate fundraising opportunities into additional events.
• Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals by source (individuals, grants, events, sponsorships).
• Expand and retain the donor base year over year.
• Deliver high-quality, well-attended fundraising events.
• Submit grant applications and reports in a timely manner.
• Establish strong, positive relationships with members and donors.

Salary

$75,000 - $85,000