Thistle Farms

Director, Strategic Advancement & Community Engagement

Thistle Farms

Apply

Job Summary

The position is critical to the future growth and ambitious fundraising plans of the External Affairs Department of Thistle Farms, which supports our key pillars to heal, house and employ women survivors of trafficking, prostitution and addiction. It will rely on both a strategic mindset and frontline fundraising experience. The position will directly manage corporate and foundation relationships, and manage community and volunteer engagement, and events. This position is responsible for identifying, building, and managing strategic partnerships to secure significant funding opportunities and collaborations.

Job Responsibilities

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

  • Two Community Engagement Coordinators (Volunteer Engagement Team)
  • Part-time Grant Writer (contract role)

Duties/Responsibilities: 

Partnership Development and Fundraising Strategy and Implementation Duties 

  • Research and identify new funding sources, including corporate partners, philanthropic foundations, and public-private partnerships.
  • Responsible for identifying, cultivating, securing, and stewarding corporate philanthropic partnerships.
  • Manage grant strategy and oversee contract grant writer.
  • Represent the organization at meetings with potential donors and community leaders to advocate for the organization’s mission and secure support.
  • Leverage personal and organizational networks to identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with philanthropic organizations.
  • Serve as a contact for key donors, engaging them in the organization’s mission and fostering long-term partnerships.
  • Build and manage a portfolio of 100+ corporations and foundations with a goal of increased engagement and giving.

 

Donor Stewardship and Reporting 

 

  • Oversee stewardship efforts to ensure ongoing engagement and satisfaction of major donors and key partners.
  • Work with the Donor Relations Manager to ensure proper acknowledgment and recognition of donors, aligning with organizational goals and priorities.
  • Develop detailed reports on funding activities, including progress on major campaigns, and key partnerships.
  • Create compelling communication materials that engage and update current and potential donors on funding initiatives and the organization’s impact.

 

Collaboration and Leadership 

 

  • Collaborate with leadership, including the CEO, Founder & President, and VP, External Affairs to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
  • Partner with internal teams to ensure the effective implementation of funded programs and manage funder expectations regarding progress and outcomes.
  • Assist in the development of organizational budgets and projections related to new funding sources.
  • Serve as the organization’s representative at various events and speaking engagements, fostering awareness and generating interest in Thistle Farms’ mission and initiatives.

 

Event Planning and Volunteer Engagement Support 

 

  • Plan and execute corporate networking events such as our annual corporate luncheon and volunteer appreciation luncheon, ensuring a seamless and impactful experience for attendees.
  • Develop and implement smaller, targeted initiatives such as our emerging leaders’ luncheons to engage local communities.
  • Partner with internal teams to create event marketing materials, secure sponsorships, and manage logistics.
  • Ensure all events align with the organization’s brand and mission while achieving defined fundraising goals.
  • Lead our Volunteer Engagement team in development of mission-focused opportunities.
  • Lead volunteer committees to drive event planning and campaign success.
  • Cultivate a culture of collaboration and accountability among volunteers and staff, celebrating contributions to organizational success.
  • Other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
  • At least 7-10 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, or a related field, with a proven track record of successfully securing high-level partnerships and significant funding.
  • At least 3+ years of leadership experience preferred
  • Knowledge of the philanthropic and public/private partnership landscape in Nashville and elsewhere.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills, with the ability to effectively engage high-level stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to craft and deliver compelling cases for support, both in writing and in person, tailored to sophisticated audiences.
  • Demonstrated experience in a frontline fundraising role with a nonprofit organization. Experience fundraising with corporations is necessary.
  • Experience leading volunteer teams and engaging with volunteers is a plus
  • Experience in developing a budget and tracking and measuring results.
  • Technology: Proficiency in donor management software (e.g. Blackbaud NXT) and event management tools.
  • Ability to work some nights and weekends, as needed for events and deadlines.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Additional Information

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, flexible spend account, generous PTO, 2 weeks company-paid sabatical, 401k (up to 4% match), short-term disability, EPA, life insurance

How to Apply

thistlefarms.org/pages/careers

Details

  • Date Posted: March 25, 2025
  • Type: Full-Time
  • Job Function: Fundraising / Revenue Development
  • Service Area: Community Development
  • Salary Range: $70,000-$85,000