Strategic Leader, Advancement & Donor Growth

United Way of Erie County; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

United Way of Erie County is seeking a strategic Vice President of Advancement to lead fundraising, donor engagement, and organizational development. You will design and execute major gifts programs, cultivate corporate partnerships, and drive data-driven campaigns to sustain the Community School Model.

Strong leadership and donor stewardship are essential. The role requires building a high-performing Advancement Marketing team, aligning talent and culture with performance, and expanding

Qualifications

• At least 15 years in advancement with multi-million fundraising programs.
• Senior leadership experience in fundraising, development, or advancement.
• Proven ability to secure major gifts and corporate partnerships.
• Expertise in digital engagement, storytelling, and brand management.
• Strong communication, planning, and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Create and grow fundraising strategies across donor engagement unit.
• Coordinate revenue-generating initiatives to boost visibility and partnerships.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors with personalized interactions.
• Evaluate donor experiences to improve the development model.
• Ensure CRM captures donor needs and provides a complete donor view.
• Integrate new technologies into department operations.
• Meet and exceed fundraising goals.
• Represent United Way in community and build partnerships.
• Engage community leaders and stakeholders to promote initiatives.

Skills

Major gifts

Corporate partnerships

Donor relationship management

Digital engagement

Strategic planning

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Donor management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

United Way of Erie County is seeking a strategic Vice President of Advancement to lead fundraising, donor engagement, and organizational development. You will design and execute major gifts programs, cultivate corporate partnerships, and drive data-driven campaigns to sustain the Community School Model.

Strong leadership and donor stewardship are essential. The role requires building a high-performing Advancement Marketing team, aligning talent and culture with performance, and expanding