Chief Development Officer (Trenton, NJ)

Can you look into the eyes of someone who is struggling and see their pain – while also seeing their potential?  Are you passionate about providing opportunities to help people rebuild their lives?

The Mission is looking to expand our team of committed staff members who are dedicated to creating an environment where those who have nowhere else to turn can live with dignity, experience hope and see new opportunities.

About Us
The Rescue Mission of Trenton is dedicated to offering food, shelter, long-term housing, counseling, behavioral help and emergency services to those in need in Mercer County. As a beacon of hope and transformation, the Mission helps individuals achieve long-term self-sufficiency and improve their lives. We are seeking a visionary and results-oriented Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead our development and fundraising efforts, enabling us to expand our impact and further our mission.

Search Summary: 
Successful candidates will possess management and organizational leadership skills with a demonstrated history of strong networks in the philanthropic community. They will have a proven track record of being proactive and innovative when connecting with the community, identifying funding opportunities, and driving our agency’s vision forward through effective resource mobilization. To accomplish these challenges, qualified candidates will possess exceptional verbal and written communication skills and have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, think strategically and problem-solve.  

Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Development and Leadership
•    Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan, ensuring alignment with the organization’s  
      mission and growth objectives.
•    Collaborate with the CEO to define and drive long-term fundraising strategies.
•    Lead and mentor the development team, setting goals, tracking progress, and fostering professional
      growth.

2. Fundraising and Donor Engagement
•    Build and implement diverse fundraising campaigns, including major gifts, corporate giving, grant writing,
      and planned-giving.
•    Cultivate relationships with major donors, corporate partners, and foundations to secure significant
      funding.
•    Manage donor stewardship and engagement programs to strengthen long-term donor relationships.

3. Community and Stakeholder Engagement
•    Represent the Rescue Mission of Trenton at community events, public engagements, and networking
     opportunities.
•    Work with agency and community leaders to expand the organization’s network and visibility.
•    Foster a culture of philanthropy within the organization and across the community.

4. Financial Oversight and Reporting
•    Oversee development budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and maximum return on investment.
•     Monitor, analyze, and report on fundraising metrics, sharing progress and insights with the executive team
      and board.
•    Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory standards in all fundraising activities.

5. Marketing and Communications Support
•    Collaborate with the marketing team to develop compelling communication materials and digital content to
      support fundraising efforts.
•    Oversee public relations strategies to promote the Rescue Mission’s brand and mission to potential donors
      and the broader community.
•    Leverage social media, donor management systems and online campaigns to enhance digital engagement
      and fundraising efforts.

Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years in nonprofit development, fundraising with a proven track record in donor cultivation, major gift solicitation, and managing successful campaigns.

Skills
•    Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and manage a team.
•    Strategic thinker with excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
•    Proficient in donor management software and fundraising technologies.
•    Financial and analytical skills for budget management and financial oversight.

Key Competencies
•    Visionary Leadership            
•    Results-Driven Approach
•    Strong Relationship Building and Communication Skills
•    Adaptability and Innovation

Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.

Schedule:  Monday - Friday,  with occasional flexibility required.

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is committed to ensuring that all current and prospective employees are afforded equal opportunities and treatment and a harassment-free work environment. The Mission provides equal employment opportunities for all without regard to any form of intentional or unintentional harassment or discrimination based on regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, breastfeeding, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
 

Department: Administration
This is a management position
This is a full time position