Director of Development

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As the Director of Development, you will play a pivotal role in Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm’s success by strategically planning, implementing, and overseeing our fundraising initiatives. You will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and other key stakeholders to ensure the financial sustainability and growth of our organization. Anticipated fundraising goals for 2024 to raise $1.3 million in a combination of major gifts, campaigns, events, and grant writing.

The Director of Development will be instrumental in shaping the organization's financial sustainability and ensuring the successful implementation of strategic fundraising initiatives. The position requires a dynamic and results-oriented leader who can drive fundraising efforts while fostering positive relationships with donors and partners.

This role involves setting clear goals, establishing effective strategies, and ensuring successful execution to achieve financial and organizational objectives.

Job Type: Full-time, benefits eligible 

Salary Range: Competitive salary and benefits

This position reports directly to the Executive Director.  

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with the organization's mission and objectives.
• Identify new funding opportunities and diversify revenue streams through grants, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and individual donors.
• Establish and maintain relationships with potential donors, supporters, and funding partners.

Donor Relations

• Cultivate and steward relationships with existing donors to enhance donor retention and increase giving levels.
• Develop and execute personalized engagement plans for major donors, ensuring their ongoing support.
• Implement effective communication strategies to keep donors informed and engaged with the organization's initiatives.

Strategic Partnerships

• Identify and pursue strategic partnerships with other organizations, corporations, and foundations to enhance the organization's impact and reach.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders to create mutually beneficial relationships that support the organization's goals.

Financial Management

• Set and manage fundraising budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency in fundraising activities.
• Track and analyze fundraising metrics, providing regular reports to the leadership team and the board of directors.

Team Leadership

• Lead and inspire a high-performing development team, providing guidance, mentorship, and support.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture, promoting continuous learning and development.

Event Management

• Plan and execute fundraising events, ensuring they align with the organization's brand and goals.
• Evaluate the success of events and implement improvements for future initiatives.

Data Management and Analysis

• Oversee the maintenance and utilization of donor databases to track donor interactions and fundraising progress.
• Analyze data to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for improvement.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Achievement of fundraising targets and goals
• Increase in donor contributions and overall revenue
• Retention rates of existing donors
• Growth in the number of new donors
• Adherence to fundraising budgets
• Cost-effectiveness of fundraising activities
• Team satisfaction and engagement
• Successful completion of team objectives

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; Master's degree preferred
• At least 5 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, and team leadership
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Knowledge of relevant fundraising regulations and ethical practices
• Experience with donor software
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suites 

About Us

Our mission is to provide life-changing equine-assisted services that foster the human-horse connection to help individuals and families with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges experience healing and joy while realizing their full potential.   We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Development to lead our fundraising team and help us make a meaningful difference in our community and beyond.

Candidates should demonstrate a mission-driven commitment, understanding the profound impact our work has on the individuals and families we support. Successful candidates will showcase a genuine connection to our mission and its community impact.  We encourage applications who see their professional journey as a means of contributing to and furthering our mission. 

To Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and resume to Kerri Whalen, kerriwhalen@ironstonefarm.org

Ironstone Farm is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm is a nonprofit organization that uses horses and riding instruction to help people with and without disabilities. This job opening is for a multi-faceted instructor to teach horsemanship and life lessons to people with and without disabilities, including grooming, tacking, and care of animals, riding techniques appropriate to each rider’s abilities, and proper care and handling of horses on the ground. Teaching will be conducted as private, semi-private, and group lessons in half-hour and hour-long sessions, and will be scheduled by management, including space and horse assignments. We are looking for horsemanship-focused individuals who are willing to work with volunteers.

Employment Type: Full-time, part-time, and seasonal (summer) positions  available

Schedule

• Weekday mornings (5 hours)
• Saturdays 8am-3pm

Requirements and Qualifications

Applicant must have a current MA Riding Instructors license, or have the interest and ability to pursue a MA license. We are looking for instructors who would be interested in working with people of varied abilities. The job would best be suited for someone with a strong work ethic, a good sense of humor, compassion and enthusiasm for the organization and its mission, and an open mind for new and innovative ways to use horses to help people. 

Are you a passionate and dynamic PT or OT seeking a unique and fun opportunity to combine your expertise with the incredible benefits of hippotherapy? Then we are looking for YOU! Ironstone Therapy is looking for part-time PTs and OTs to join our therapy team! We work hand in hoof with our pediatric clients to facilitate therapeutic outcomes through interaction with and movement of our ponies.

Schedule

Therapists typically choose to work 1 or 2 shifts per week and 4-6 hours per shift. Shifts are based on the availability of the therapist, horses, and volunteers. Current shifts available are evenings and Saturdays.

Required Licensure/Certification

• Current MA license as a Physical or Occupational Therapist
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification

Qualifications

• Experience with pediatrics and ponies is preferred - however, training is available for the right applicant! 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to connect with the client and therapy team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for effective treatment planning and documentation
• Flexibility and willingness to be part of a team - including the client, family/caregiver, session volunteers, and the pony!