Montpelier, VT

The Organization

WORK WITH US

The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact around the world in 69 countries, all 50 United States, and your backyard. Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Visit www.nature.org/about-us to learn more.

The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.

Position Overview

We are seeking an energetic and dedicated professional with proven success in relational philanthropy who works best in a fast-paced environment and enjoys being on the road and out with donors. Our ideal candidate will want to work in a long term partnership with leadership to develop and implement strategies to build a robust roster of engaged donors, have a deep commitment to conservation, and the ability to build and leverage strong community relationships in Vermont.

The Associate Director of Philanthropy works as part of the philanthropy team to coordinate and implement effective multi-year strategies for gift prospects, including corporate, foundation, and individual donors. She/he will play a critical role in prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for a potential campaign and beyond and manage of portfolio of 100+ donors.

RESPONSIBILITES AND SCOPE

• Act independently and in supervisor’s stead as needed, exercise independent judgment to identify and solve problems.
• Decisions may have program-wide impact and may bind the organization financially or legally.
• Demonstrate sensitivity in handling confidential information.
• Ensure compliance with TNC policies and procedures and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements.
• Financial responsibility includes working within a budget and meeting fundraising objectives.
• Manage assigned projects, coordinating the work of peers and setting deadlines.
• May manage or participate in complex or sensitive negotiations.
• Persuasively convey the mission of TNC to diverse groups who are important to the organization’s overall prosperity.
• Travel frequently and on short notice, work long and flexible hours as needed.
• Work environment involves only infrequent exposure to disagreeable elements and minor physical exertion and/or strain.
• Manage a portfolio of 75 – 125 donors, including donors with the capacity to give over $100,000, once the portfolio is developed. Responsible for 75 – 125 visits and 225 – 375 moves annually. Annual fundraising goal of $500,000 or more, along with a goal for bequest notifications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 years related experience or an equivalent combination.
• Experience building and maintaining long-term relationships with fundraising constituents.
• Experience in asking for and closing gifts of $25,000 or more.
• Experience in managing and tracking multiple prospects and donors.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams.
• Experience, coursework, or other training in fundraising principles and practices.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Ability to determine an individual’s interests, capacity and potential for helping the Conservancy meet its goals, and act appropriately to tie those interests with the Conservancy’s work.
• Ability to educate and inform prospective and existing donors about appropriate giving vehicles.
• Ability to implement and manage fundraising plans, including individualized cultivation, solicitation and recognition plans.
• Knowledge of current trends in the charitable giving in the areas of capital campaigns, major gifts or planned giving.
• Demonstrated experience using listening, diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships and motivate donors and volunteers.
• Proven ability to negotiate high profile or sensitive agreements.
• Working knowledge of the basics of charitable gift planning.
• 3-5 years of experience with relationship building in Vermont
• 3 years fundraising experience in New England, preferably in Vermont or New Hampshire
• Experience working in a team with diverse communication styles

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

• Extensive in-state travel and occasional out of state travel is required.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with the Conservancy’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high risk drivers.” Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.