Head of Development and Communications

Classification: Contractor

Schedule: Flexible, ensuring deliverables and attendance at required events and meetings

Location: Remote

Reports to: Executive Director

Direct Reports: Communications and fundraising volunteers

About SafePlace International:

SafePlace International (SPI) is a US-registered 501(c)(3) focused on centering and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities to enact meaningful social change and build a world that’s safer, more inclusive, and filled with joy. Through our signature holistic leadership training program and community investment initiatives, we work to cultivate ecosystems of safety, healing, and collective growth with and for an intersectional community of forcibly displaced single mothers and LGBTQI+ persons to affirm the leaders that only they can be.

About The Role:

The Head of Development and Communications (HDC) is a pivotal senior leadership role reporting directly to the Executive Director. The HDC is responsible for the strategic development and execution of all fundraising and communications initiatives, focusing on expanding SPI’s financial resources, enhancing its public image, and helping to secure its long-term sustainability. The role demands a dynamic individual capable of driving growth through diverse fundraising strategies, relationship development, and compelling communication.

Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising and Development
   Work closely with the Executive Director and other members of the Board to:
   1. Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic development plan to meet and exceed our financial goals.
   2. Grow our network of supporters by executing new strategies for cultivation and engagement and expanding relationships with major donors, corporate partners, foundations, and individual contributors.
   3. Oversee grant prospecting, writing, and reporting, ensuring timely and accurate submissions.
   4. Design and manage fundraising campaigns, including annual appeals, evergreen online giving, special events, etc.
   5. Implement a robust donor stewardship program to enhance donor engagement and retention.
2. Communications and Marketing
   1. Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communications plan that dovetails with the development plan and aligns with SPI’s mission and goals..
   2. Work with PR partners and other communications volunteers to manage all communication channels, including digital (website, social media, email, etc.) and traditional (press releases, bylines, newsletters, etc.).
   3. Craft compelling narratives and content that highlight the impact of SPI’s work and engage diverse audiences.
   4. Enhance SPI’s brand visibility and reputation through strategic media relations and public outreach.
3. Strategic Leadership and Collaboration
   1. Provide professional expertise and direction to organizational leadership on all aspects of fundraising, working closely with the Executive Director and Board to align and prioritize fundraising and communications strategies with organizational objectives and revenue goals.
   2. Serve as a thought partner to the Executive Director and meaningfully participate in internal meetings, providing regular reports on fundraising and communications activity and performance and making recommendations for adjustment as needed.
   3. Recruit, lead, and support communications and development volunteers, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and high performance.
4. Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of three years in fundraising and communications, with a proven track record of meeting goals in a non-profit setting.
• Demonstrated success in securing significant funding from a variety of sources, including major donors, foundations, and corporate partnerships.
• Excellent leadership skills, guided by kindness, empathy, and personal integrity.
• Excellent strategic planning and project management skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with a broad base of internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in CRM software, fundraising platforms, and digital communication tools.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• A deep commitment to SPI’s mission and values.

The successful candidate will be:

• A strategic and creative thinker, capable of developing innovative fundraising and communication strategies.
• A relationship builder, with the ability to engage and inspire donors and partners.
• A results-oriented leader, focused on achieving and exceeding fundraising goals.
• An excellent communicator, able to articulate SPI’s mission and impact effectively.
• A collaborative team player, able to work effectively with staff, board members, and volunteers.
• Adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• An adept problem solver, able to anticipate needs, identify challenges, and develop creative and effective solutions
• Highly organized, able to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Adaptable, curious, and enthusiastic about learning new skills
• Willing to challenge assumptions and grow, personally and professionally
• An effective communicator, written and oral, internally and externally, with particular acumen in interpersonal communication
• Proficient in technology, quick to learn new platforms, and able to teach others
• Self motivated and a strong team player who enjoys collaborating and working with others
• Passionate about the mission of the organization and committed to making a positive impact in the world

What else you should know:

This is a remote contract position. There is no fixed location requirement, but you must be available to meet and collaborate with team members located primarily in North America, Europe, and Africa.

Benefits:

• Engage in deeply meaningful work collaborating directly with the community we serve.
• Flexible schedule.
• Professional development opportunities, training, and potential travel within the scope of the position as approved by the Executive Director.
• Exposure to different world views, cultures, traditions, and languages.
• Collaborate with highly motivated and dedicated individuals who are passionate about creating a kinder, more equitable world.