Strategic Development & Communications Director

Management Information Exchange; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 139,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland is seeking a dynamic Director of Development & Communications to lead fundraising, communications, and government relations. This executive role advances justice by expanding civil legal services and donor partnerships with major funders, foundations, and government partners.

You will guide a skilled team and collaborate with the Executive Director and Board to ensure long-term sustainability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred (JD/MBA or related).
• 10+ years in development, fundraising, communications, and nonprofit leadership.
• Proven success securing major gifts, institutional funding, and government partnerships.
• Experience with fundraising databases and CRM tools.

Responsibilities

• Serve as chief fundraising strategist to ensure financial sustainability.
• Design and implement diversified fundraising strategies across major donors and funders.
• Lead donor stewardship and relationships with top individual and institutional funders.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board to engage stakeholders in fundraising.
• Plan and execute solicitation strategies for Major and Planned Gifts.
• Oversee annual development plans and ensure fundraising targets are met.
• Evaluate fundraising performance and use donor insights for cultivation.
• Oversee compliance with AFP Code of Ethics and related policies.
• Develop external communications strategy and brand-aligned messaging.
• Lead media relations and crisis communications for the organization.
• Manage public events and donor engagement initiatives.

Skills

Fundraising strategy

Donor stewardship

Strategic leadership

Media relations

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree

JD / MBA or related field

Tools

Raiser’s Edge

CRM systems

Job description

The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland is seeking a dynamic Director of Development & Communications to lead fundraising, communications, and government relations. This executive role advances justice by expanding civil legal services and donor partnerships with major funders, foundations, and government partners.

You will guide a skilled team and collaborate with the Executive Director and Board to ensure long-term sustainability.