Director of Development

Organizational Overview

Vision: We envision an Athens-Clarke County where every individual is empowered to reach their fullest potential.
Mission: We connect students, families, and residents with the relationships and resources they need to thrive by:

• Supporting students with holistic, coordinated services
• Connecting families and residents to vital resources
• Collaborating with local leaders to meet community needs

We Believe: When Communities Connect, People Thrive.

Family Connection–Communities In Schools (FC-CIS) of Athens is a nonprofi t organization working at the intersection of education, family support, and community collaboration. Since 1992, FC-CIS has partnered with schools, nonprofi ts, government agencies, and local leaders to ensure students and families in Clarke County have access to the supports they need to succeed. Our programs combine school-based intervention with community-driven solutions, emphasizing whole-family well-being, equity, and long-term impact.

Position Summary
The Director of Development is a senior-level position responsible for implementing FC-CIS’s established fundraising and communications strategy. This role leads donor engagement, major gifts, grants, and marketing efforts; coordinates special events; manages donor data systems; and supervises development interns.

As a key member of the leadership team, the Director of Development will advance FC-CIS’s mission and vision through relationship-building, strategic fundraising, and community-centered communications. This is an opportunity to join a values-driven team committed to equity, collaboration, and creating thriving communities across Athens-Clarke County.

Primary Responsibilities
(Estimated percentage of time allocation)

1. Fundraising Strategy Implementation & Evaluation – 30%

• Implement and continuously refi ne FC-CIS’s multi-year fundraising plan
• Expand and build lasting relationships with individual and corporate donors
• Identify and pursue new foundation grant opportunities that reduce reliance on government funding and foster deeper community connection
• Track and report on fundraising metrics and trends to inform strategy
• Serve as staff liaison to the Board Resource Development Committee

2. Donor Stewardship & Relationship Management – 25%

• Manage a portfolio of 40–60 major donors, sponsors, and prospects
• Develop and execute individualized stewardship plans
• Coordinate donor cultivation activities, meetings, and tours
• Oversee the development of impact reports, acknowledgments, and appeals

3. Grants & Foundation Relations – 15%

• Maintain and manage an active grants calendar
• Write and submit compelling proposals and funder reports
• Collaborate with program staff to gather data and outcomes for reporting
•  Proactively research and vet new grant opportunities aligned with FC-CIS’s mission

4. Marketing, Communications & Brand Oversight – 15%

• Oversee execution of FC-CIS’s marketing strategy in partnership with Defi ned Campaigns (interim)
• Guide creation of digital and print content, newsletters, and social media campaigns
• Ensure messaging consistency and alignment with fundraising priorities
• Prepare for internal transition of marketing responsibilities by Year 3

5. Event Planning & Campaign Execution – 10%

• Lead planning and execution of annual fundraising events
• Secure sponsors, develop event communications, and oversee logistics
• Collaborate with staff and vendors to ensure meaningful donor and community experiences
• Support additional donor and partner engagement activities throughout the year

6. Donor Data, CRM Management & Intern Oversight – 5%

• Manage the organization’s donor CRM (e.g., Bloomerang, Salesforce, or similar)
• Maintain data accuracy, ensure timely gift entry and acknowledgment
• Generate reports to evaluate progress and support decision-making
• Supervise and mentor 1–2 development interns assisting with database upkeep, communications, and event preparation

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, marketing, or related fi elds
• Proven track record in donor stewardship, major gifts, grant writing, and event planning
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including persuasive storytelling
• Experience managing CRM platforms such as Neon, Bloomerang, Salesforce, or similar systems
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple deadlines and priorities
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team, community partners, and volunteers
• Deep commitment to the mission, vision, and values of FC-CIS

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, marketing, communications, business, or a related fi eld
• Familiarity with Athens-Clarke County or similar communities
• Supervisory experience (interns, volunteers, or staff)
• Graphic design, video, or content creation experience is a plus

Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $60,000 – $65,000 annually, commensurate with experience
Benefits include:
● Employer health insurance contribution
● Retirement plan with employer contribution
● Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
● Flexible hybrid work environment
● Professional development allowance
● Opportunities for professional development and salary growth consistent with organizational growth
● Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel

To Apply, please email the following deliverables to jobs@fc-cis.org
1. Cover Letter – describing your fundraising experience and alignment with FC-CIS’s mission
2. Resume – outlining your relevant professional experience
3. Two Writing Samples – such as a donor appeal, grant proposal, or stewardship report
4. One Design Sample – such as a social media graphic, flyer, or campaign piece
5. Three Professional References – with contact information
6. Optional Portfolio Materials – design, campaigns, or event examples if available

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to submissions received by October 3, 2025. Equal Opportunity Statement: Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Athens is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, or political affiliation.