Vice President, Philanthropy & Engagement

Position Overview

The Vice President, Philanthropy & Engagement is a strategic executive leader responsible for advancing the organization’s revenue, reputation, and stakeholder relationships through the development and execution of integrated fundraising, communications, and engagement strategies.

As a member of the Executive Team, reporting directly to the CEO, the VP provides leadership across fund development, marketing and communications, and community engagement, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and long‑term sustainability.

This role requires a forward‑thinking, collaborative leader with strong fundraising expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to balance operational excellence with governance, long‑term strategy, and continuous improvement.

• Lead a multi‑year philanthropic strategy (individual, corporate, foundations, events) that generates annual revenue of $6 million+.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and Executive Team on fundraising, communications, and community engagement.
• Support the CEO with high‑value stakeholder efforts and government relations.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and the Advancement Committee on fundraising strategy and opportunities to contribute to fundraising success.

• Personally manage a high‑value donor portfolio with an emphasis on transformational gifts from individuals and foundations.
• Secure, steward, and renew 6‑plus‑figure gifts with multi‑year agreements.
• Advance The INN’s planned giving program and solicit expectancies from loyal supporters.
• Identify and engage philanthropists who give through donor‑advised‑funds and family foundations with customized solicitation strategies and stewardship plans.
• Deepen The INN’s use of digital tools and data analytics – including high‑quality AI platforms – to advance reach and revenue.
• Ensure full compliance with CRA guidelines, Donor Bill of Rights, ethical charitable giving practices, and The INN’s mission, vision, and values.

• Lead integrated marketing and communications to elevate The INN’s brand identity while broadening and deepening reach and results among key stakeholders.
• Oversee the development and execution of an integrated communications plan for internal and external audiences.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to the CEO and Executive Team.
• Drive donor engagement through communications that connect to mission, demonstrate impact, and inspire loyalty and generosity.

• Oversee volunteer program strategy to advance organizational priorities.
• Lead team to strategically connect individuals, corporations, and organizations with programs that support clients – eg: food and nutrition, essential items.
• Build community partnerships that advance mission, awareness, and revenue.

• Provide leadership, direction, and mentorship to five direct reports across fundraising, communications, and community engagement teams.
• Build team capacity through skills development, stretch opportunities, and dynamic leadership practices aligned with The INN’s revenue goals and organizational priorities.
• Commit to self‑development and growth as a results‑driven professional with presence and influence across the organization and throughout the community.
• Promote a psychologically safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace aligned with The INN’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Exercise strategic discernment on opportunities to involve the CEO in high‑value donor conversations and community engagements.
• Actively contribute as a member of the Executive Team, modelling strong cross‑departmental collaboration and shared accountability for organizational culture and outcomes.

• Post‑secondary education, a minimum of Bachelor’s degree required.

• CFRE designation achieved or in progress required.

• 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in philanthropy with 3+ years at Senior Director or VP level.

• Proven ability to secure 6‑plus‑figure gifts through…