Director of Development

We are looking for a Director of Development to join our team!

Downstreet Housing and Community Development is a private, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering social justice through the power of affordable housing. We pride ourselves on connecting people to the resources they need to thrive and creating equitable opportunities for everyone in Central Vermont to access safe, healthy homes. Through our work, we strengthen the health and future of our local communities.

Downstreet is seeking an experienced candidate committed to affordable housing and eager to help us build a culture of philanthropy by fostering a unified commitment to giving by educating staff, volunteers, and stakeholders on the importance of philanthropy, integrating fundraising into all aspects of the organization’s activities, and creating opportunities for meaningful donor engagement and recognition.

Key Responsibilities

Establish and implement clear short- and long-term goals to drive successful fundraising initiatives. Lead and manage all aspects of fundraising.
Build, cultivate, and steward relationships with Develop and oversee implementation of a Donor Cultivation Plan, including a structured process for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, acknowledging, and stewarding individual, corporate, foundation, and government donors.
Partner with the Executive Director and Board of Trustees to align development efforts with organizational goals and engage Board and Volunteers in Fundraising by providing training, guidance, and opportunities.
Ensure all donors are thanked and acknowledged promptly and appropriately, using tailored strategies to reinforce relationships and inspire continued support.
Develop and oversee implementation of a Communications and Engagement Plan.
Work with communications staff and/or consultants to develop impactful materials such as the annual report, direct mail appeals, project case statements, and sponsorship proposals.
Oversee data collection, management, and analysis to guide strategy and decision-making.
Organize and manage fundraising-related events.
Oversee annual development budget and development operations, making improvements to policies and procedures as needs.
Identify, write, and manage foundation and other grants relevant to the work of the organization.

Experience and Education

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, employment, and life experience.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn relevant software.
Highly organized with a strong ability to manage priorities and deadlines and ability to manage confidential information.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, active listening skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Commitment to equity and inclusion and social and economic justice.
Valid Vermont Driver’s License and personal vehicle.

Physical Requirements

Some Saturday and Weeknight hours required.
Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working at a computer
Must be able to climb stairs and lift 25 pounds at a time

Compensation

This is a full-time position. Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 annually.

Competitive benefits package including 403b match, health and dental insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, life insurance, short-term disability, flexible schedule, and hybrid remote/office work schedule available.

Application Instructions

Downstreet is strongest when we have a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We know that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or Veteran status are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please complete the form below. Please include a resume and a cover letter explaining why you would like to be a part of the Downstreet team. Applications submitted without a cover letter will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.