Director of Development (Milwaukee)

Reporting to the Chief Strategy & Program Officer, the Director of Development is responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive, diversified fundraising strategy to advance the mission and long-term sustainability of the Center. This includes leadership in grant writing, individual giving, and institutional partnerships with corporations and foundations.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, strategic thinker and relationship builder with strong planning and organizational skills. They will bring creativity, professionalism, and passion for serving veterans, working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, volunteers, and staff to achieve ambitious fundraising goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 85%

• In collaboration with the Chief Strategy & Program Officer and key leadership, enhance and implement a strategic, diversified fundraising plan that meets current goals and supports future growth.
• Develop and execute strategies for planned giving programs, including bequests, donor-advised funds, IRA distributions, stock transfers, and other legacy gifts.
• Cultivate corporate and foundation partnerships aligned with both institutional priorities and the partners philanthropic and community engagement goals.
• Lead a robust stewardship program that engages, recognizes, and thanks supporters, strengthening their long-term relationship with the organization.
• Build and manage a major gifts portfolio of donors and prospects with $10,000+ giving capacity; cultivate, solicit, and secure annual, major, and multi-year contributions.
• Support the Chief Strategy & Program Officer in fundraising activities, including donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship initiatives.
• Oversee data management and reporting, ensuring accurate tracking, analysis, and evaluation of fundraising performance.
• Develop donor communications and materials that reflect the organizations mission and inspire engagement, including fundraising collateral, acknowledgments, and recognition pieces.
• Supervise data integrity within the development database, maintaining accurate records of donor contact information, pledges, and giving history.
• Manage departmental budgets and ensure compliance with all funder and organizational guidelines.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Engagement of Senior Management and Key Volunteers - 15%

Qualities and Qualifications