Development Assistant

~ Island Press is a nonprofit organization that communicates ideas essential to solving environmental problems. ~

Our books, products, and program activities help stimulate new ideas, educate professionals and the public, inspire environmental protection, and prepare the next generation of environmental leaders.

Position Overview 

Island Press seeks an assistant to aid in the maintenance and administrative functions of the Development and Program Department.

Major responsibilities include preparing correspondence with donors; maintaining files; tracking fundraising activities; conducting research; scheduling; and event planning. S/he will support the VP for Strategic Advancement and other members of the department. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Data Entry & Donation Processing: maintains all donor and contact files, both paper and digital databases; tracks all funding and donations and analyzes progress toward financial goals.
• Donor Relations: works with Development team and VP Strategic Advancement in executing annual fundraising plan for individuals and foundations; updates and maintains Development work plan with all foundation and individual proposal and reporting deadlines; prepares correspondence with donors, including annual solicitation letters, grant requests, stewardship mailings, thank you letters, and invitations to events as needed.
• Research & Writing: identifies and researches prospective donors and foundations, in preparation for meetings and/or for solicitation efforts; reviews and proofreads materials as needed; maintains working knowledge of current research and an understanding of fundraising, especially pertaining to institutional goals.
• Event Planning: assists in the coordination of Sustainability Knowledge Network events and activities including event planning and follow up, drafting and sending invitations, and travel arrangements.
• Admin Support: manages logistics for internal meetings including reserving conference rooms, inviting participants, and preparing meeting materials; schedules meetings and coordinates travel for the Communications and Development team as necessary, to include making flight, hotel and car reservations as appropriate; Manages general administrative tasks for the VP for Strategic Advancement including expense and credit card reports, and mailings; serves as back up for reception including daily lunch coverage.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications  

Education & Experience:   

• A bachelor's degree and/or equivalent experience required.
• Minimum of two years of office experience preferred.
• Interest in development is a must. 

Knowledge & Skills:  

• Excellent organizational and communication skills required.
• Attention to detail a must.
• Ability to communicate complex issues, such as science and research, in writing.
• Mature judgment, discretion, initiative, diplomacy and tact essential.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities and demands in a fast paced, high output office necessary.

Computer Skills: 

• Microsoft Office and database experience required.
• Familiarity with web and social media preferred.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and InDesign preferred. 

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include medical, dental, disability, retirement, paid leave, fitness center. 

To Apply 

• Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email your resume and a cover letter.
• Type "Development Assistant" into the subject line.
• No calls please.