Development Director

~ In the early 1990s a university professor, his graduate student, and some dedicated river folk - a motley mix of trout anglers, paddlers, and conservationists and educators - hatched an idea that would grow into one of the largest and strongest statewide river conservation organizations in the nation and is recognized as one of Wisconsin's leading conservation groups. ~

From its humble beginnings in 1993, with the help and advice of national groups such as River Network and the hard work and commitment of lovers of rivers from Racine to Spooner, the River Alliance of Wisconsin is now a strong, effective voice for the flowing waters of the state.

Our mission is to advocate for the protection, enhancement and restoration of Wisconsin's rivers and watersheds. Our members are urban, rural and retired; anglers, paddlers and lovers of water and some depend on rivers to make a living. Together, our common interest is a shared passion for rivers and the inspiration they bring. 

Position Overview

The River Alliance of Wisconsin, Wisconsin's only organization devoted to conserving the state's rivers, seeks a talented and experienced person to oversee its fundraising program. The goal of this position is to build relations with members, donors, businesses and others who care about and want to invest in river conservation. The River Alliance is in a strong fundraising position, and we are seeking an innovative fundraiser to add new ideas to a successful program.

The development director works closely with other River Alliance staff and board members with the full gamut of fundraising activities. Two high priorities for the organization are to expand the major donor program and further integrate the fundraising system into communications and program work.

Responsibilities

Duties include the following:

• Develop, implement and evaluate River Alliance's annual fundraising plan.
• Work directly with the executive director on a major donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plan.
• Run direct mail and email fundraising campaigns.
• Participate in planning and executing fundraising and outreach events including our Wild and Scenic Film Festival, Online Auction, and the Member Appreciation Picnic.
• Maintain and improve our fundraising database and launching a new data base.
• Collaborate with colleagues to integrate the fundraising program with other communications and program activities.
• Work directly with the board of directors on fundraising.
• Build a planned giving program.
• Provide the executive director and board of directors with appropriate measures of fundraising outcomes on a regular basis.
• Assist with other duties and assignments not directly related to fundraising that support the organization's functions (e.g. event attendance, board meetings, issue trainings, etc.)
• Develop relationships with counterparts in other organizations and with River Alliance members and donors.

Qualifications

We are seeking someone with the following qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of fundraising work experience, preferably in environmental conservation and/or advocacy.
• Strong relationship skills, able to connect quickly and genuinely with diverse groups of people.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, able to understand the needs of donors and find new and expanded opportunities.

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. Position includes a comprehensive benefits package, an energetic work environment, and the chance to associate with people who are passionate about and committed to healthy rivers.

To Apply

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email your letter of interest, resume and a short writing sample with the title "Development Search" in the subject line. No calls, please.

~ The River Alliance of Wisconsin is an equal opportunity employer. ~