Associate Director of Philanthropy

What We Can Achieve Together

The Associate Director of Philanthropy (ADoP) works closely with the development team to implement and coordinate effective multi‑year strategies and plans for gift prospects, including corporate, foundation, and/or individual donors.

The Associate Director of Philanthropy is responsible for building a portfolio of qualified donors and developing relationships. They understand and apply the principles of developing donor strategies. They will be responsible for direct asks to both global and local priorities to meet funding needs. They listen for opportunities for gifts of assets or other non‑cash gifts, such as planned gifts and trade lands.

The ADoP provides opportunities for donors to receive recognition and increase future giving. They involve appropriate partners in the field and staff at the Worldwide Office, keeping them apprised of interactions, issues or concerns, and direct questions as appropriate.

They are capable of featuring the programs of the Conservancy in broad terms. They may be responsible for volunteer engagement within formal and/or informal networks. The ADoP will be required to use the Conservancy’s donor database and may participate in the development of proposals.

• Act independently and in the supervisor’s stead as needed, exercising independent judgment to identify and solve problems.
• Decisions may have program‑wide impact and may bind the organization financially or legally.
• Demonstrate sensitivity in handling confidential information.
• Ensure compliance with TNC policies and procedures and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements.
• Financial responsibility includes working within a budget and meeting fundraising objectives.
• Manage assigned projects, coordinating the work of peers and setting deadlines.
• May manage or participate in complex or sensitive negotiations.
• Persuasively convey the mission of TNC to diverse groups who are important to the organization’s overall prosperity.
• Travel frequently and on short notice, working long and flexible hours as needed.
• Work environment involves infrequent exposure to disagreeable elements and minor physical exertion and/or strain.
• Manage a portfolio of 75 – 125 donors, including donors with the capacity to give over $100,000 once the portfolio is developed. Responsible for 75 – 125 visits and 225 – 375 moves annually. Annual fundraising goal of $500,000 or more, along with a goal for bequest notifications.

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 years related experience or an equivalent combination.
• Experience building and maintaining long‑term relationships with fundraising constituents.
• Experience in asking for and closing gifts of $25,000 or more.
• Experience in managing and tracking multiple prospects and donors.
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams.
• Experience, coursework, or other training in fundraising principles and practices.

• Multi‑lingual skills and multi‑cultural or cross‑cultural experience appreciated.
• Ability to determine an individual’s interests, capacity, and potential for helping the Conservancy meet its goals, and act appropriately to tie those interests with the Conservancy’s work.
• Ability to educate and inform prospective and existing donors about appropriate giving vehicles.
• Ability to implement and manage fundraising plans, including individualized cultivation, solicitation, and recognition plans.
• Strong networks in Chittenden County and northern Vermont communities.
• Knowledge of current trends in charitable giving in the areas of capital campaigns, major gifts, or planned giving.
• Demonstrated experience using listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships and motivate donors and volunteers.
• Proven ability to negotiate high‑profile or sensitive agreements.
• Working knowledge of the basics of charitable gift planning.

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program
. Employees may not drive Conservancy‑owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high risk drivers.” To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety…