Director of Development

Unify America

full-time

Posted on: 9/6/2025

Location: Ohio • 🇺🇸 United States

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💰 $90,000 - $120,000 per year

Lead

Assembly

About the role

Develop and implement a comprehensive major gifts program and annual fundraising plan, including establishing major gift tiers, processes, and a donor lifecycle from identification to stewardship.
In collaboration with Founder and Chief of U.S. Democracy Leagues, develop creative approaches to diversify revenue streams and drive sustainable financial growth for Unify Akron and other Democracy Leagues.
Identify and cultivate relationships with key donors and funding partners; prospect research and strategy; implement and lead prospect research efforts.
Build and manage a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, and corporate prospects in Ohio and beyond with capacity to make significant gifts ($10,000+).
Create and deliver compelling, donor-centric proposals and effectively solicit major gifts; close gifts and meet/exceed annual fundraising goals.
Nurture long-term relationships with donors through strategic communication and in-person meetings; develop a stewardship plan communicating impact.
Research, identify, and pursue grant opportunities; prepare grant proposals, manage application process, ensure compliance with reporting requirements.
Manage and optimize donor data in CRM; track donor activity and report on performance metrics and progress toward fundraising goals.
Report directly to the Chief of U.S. Democracy Leagues; work with Creative and Tech teams for campaign assets and online giving; collaborate with local Akron team.

Deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape in Ohio and proven experience (8-10 years ) in nonprofit fundraising, development, and/or growth strategy.
Track record of achieving ambitious revenue goals from Ohio-based donors or for Ohio-based programs, with deep knowledge of fundraising techniques, and donor cultivation and stewardship practices.
Experience in grant writing, grant management, and reporting.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage a pipeline of prospects at different stages.
Demonstrated resilience and a high comfort level with cold outreach and rejection.
Strong leadership abilities, with experience in leading campaigns and managing teams.
Proficiency with fundraising database software/CRMs and donor research tools.
Entrepreneurial spirit; ability to take initiative and work collaboratively within a small, dynamic team.
Passion for Unify America’s mission and commitment to radical non-partisanship.
Willingness to commit to embracing radical non-partisanship.
Sense of humor; ability to work in an ultra-marathon environment.