Director, Leadership Giving

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Full Time, Lakeland, FL, US

Salary Range: $60,000.00 To $65,000.00 Annually

The Director, Leadership Giving is a highly relational, results-driven fundraising leader responsible for growing and stewarding a portfolio of individual donors contributing up to $2,500 annually. This role leads UWCF’s Leadership Giving strategy across the entry and mid-level donor pipeline, with a strong emphasis on Young Leaders Society (YLS) and Women United affinity groups.

This position offers true ownership of a donor portfolio, with the opportunity to shape strategy, deepen relationships, and drive measurable fundraising results. The Director serves as a visible ambassador for UWCF – partnering closely with volunteer leaders, steering committees, and community partners to expand reach, strengthen engagement, and inspire philanthropic investment across Polk County. Additionally, this role plays a key part in cultivating emerging leaders by representing UWCF within the EMERGE Lakeland network – helping to build meaningful connections and strengthen the future pipeline of Leadership Giving donors.

This is a frontline fundraising role for someone who enjoys building authentic relationships, confidently making the ask, and staying engaged through every step of the donor journey – from first connection to lasting commitment.

• Build, manage, and actively grow a portfolio of individual donors giving up to $2,500 annually, with clear goals for retention, upgrade, and acquisition.
• Serve as a frontline fundraiser, conducting donor meetings, calls, and in-person solicitations to secure gifts and increase giving levels.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of Leadership Giving affinity groups, including Young Leaders Society (YLS) and Women United, ensuring strong volunteer engagement, growth, and impact.
• Serve as the UWCF partner agency representative for EMERGE Lakeland, building relationships with emerging leaders and strengthening the pipeline for future Leadership Giving engagement.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive annual engagement and fundraising plan, including affinity group strategies, donor touchpoints, and campaign initiatives.
• Lead the planning and execution of affinity group events and donor experiences that enhance engagement and connection to UWCF’s mission.
• Recruit, engage, and support volunteer leaders to advance fundraising goals and strengthen community involvement.
• Collaborate with the Corporate Philanthropy team to identify new prospects and cross-functional giving opportunities.
• Leverage community events, networking opportunities, and digital engagement to cultivate and steward donor relationships aligned with UWCF’s strategic priorities.
• Track, analyze, and report on donor engagement and fundraising performance using CRM tools (ANDAR), ensuring accuracy and strategic insight.
• Represent UWCF at community events, on committees, and through partnerships, strengthening visibility and relationships across the region.
• Contribute to UWCF’s broader fundraising strategy through collaboration, innovation, and leadership presence.

• Proven ability to personally solicit and close gifts through relationship-based fundraising.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage, inspire, and connect authentically with diverse audiences.
• Highly organized, goal-oriented, and accountable, with the ability to manage a portfolio and meet fundraising targets.
• Demonstrated persistence and resilience, with a thoughtful and consistent approach to follow-up and donor engagement.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with donors, volunteers, and community leaders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and CRM systems such as ANDAR.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, relationship-driven environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early…