US Chess Job Opportunity: Director of Development

US Chess has opened its search for a Director of Development, a new position within US Chess. The Director of Development will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team and will create a development program to support the US Chess mission and programs. To apply for this position, please include an expression of interest, resume, three professional references, and a relevant writing sample by August 31 (extended), 2018 to Judy Misner (Click here to show email address). No phone calls please. The United States Chess Federation (US Chess) is seeking an experienced Director of Development to establish the strategic framework for a robust development program. US Chess, founded in 1939, is the US affiliate of the World Chess Federation (FIDE) and is responsible for overseeing rated play in the United States. US Chess became a 501(c)(3) in 2014, when it enhanced its mission to include an education focus. The Director of Development is a new role within US Chess. The Director of Development will work with the Executive Director, Executive Board, US Chess staff and the organization’s almost 100,000 members to create and implement a comprehensive development plan for short- and long-term revenue growth in support of the US Chess mission. The development plan will include diverse strategies for resource development, including major gifts, corporate donations, grant solicitation, planned-giving, sponsorships, special events and in-kind support. This Director of Development will be a member of the US Chess leadership team. Reports To: Executive Director Status: Exempt Major Areas of Responsibility Achievement of Revenue Goals

Work with Executive Director to develop and execute a comprehensive development plan to ensure the achievement of target revenue goals.
Monitor and evaluate all fundraising activities.
Monitor trends nationally and regionally and adapt fundraising strategies accordingly.
Coordinate and implement the annual campaign to include funds targeted for:
- Mission-based initiatives (education, women/girls, underrepresented, geographical diversity, among others)
- Scholarships
- Support for international events (Olympiad, World Youth, World Cadet)
- Operations
Research prospective funders and prepare grant applications that support mission-based initiatives.
In partnership with the Executive Board and the US Chess Development Committee, implement a planned giving program that grows various types of deferred support.
Serve as the staff liaison to the Development Committee.
Foster an understanding of philanthropy throughout the organization.

Donor Cultivation

Identify and cultivate major gifts prospects in consultation with Executive Director and Executive Board.
Develop and maintain a planned giving program for major donors to help them achieve their philanthropic objectives.
Work closely in consultation with the Development Committee, Senior Director of Strategic Communication and other staff to implement effective communications and marketing strategies.

Donor Care and Stewardship

Build and implement a comprehensive donor stewardship program.
Ensure all gifts are promptly acknowledged and nurture relationships through donor care activities.
Implement and oversee the effective implementation and use of a donor management system.

Broad knowledge and experience in / with:

Major gift and annual fundraising - strong ability and proven track record
Establishing or managing a planned giving program
Developing and maintaining sponsor relationships
Working with the American chess community is a plus

Excellent Skills in:

Written and oral communications and appropriate self-confidence and maturity to effectively communicate the US Chess vision at all levels and across organizational lines to inspire staff, board, donors and volunteers
Organizational abilities including collaborating, planning, delegating, setting priorities, management of goals, and track details, data, information and activities
Technology including database, spreadsheets, presentations, and word processing

Demonstrated ability to:

Engage board and volunteer leadership in donor cultivation and solicitation
Build and maintain positive relationships with others, both internally and externally
Work collaboratively and effectively on a small team and as a member of the leadership team, with high accountability
Be transparent with high integrity leadership and a style that motivates people to work hard while having fun
Project and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct

Education and Experience:

A bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university
Five or more years of demonstrated nonprofit fundraising success including track record of successfully executing a comprehensive development plan and face to face solicitations of $5,000+
CFRE desirable

Other Qualifications: