Director of Development

The Gordon JCC is a welcoming and inclusive community center dedicated to fostering connections, promoting diverse cultural experiences, and delivering outstanding programs inspired by Jewish values. It is a gathering space where individuals come together to engage in recreational, educational, and cultural activities. The Gordon JCC enriches the mind, body, and spirit through its meaningful resources and events. Located in Nashville, TN, the organization serves as a hub for collaboration, celebration, and community building.

The Gordon JCC is seeking a passionate and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs and community impact. This role is central to advancing our mission by building meaningful donor relationships, securing philanthropic support, and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy across individual giving, events, grants, and sponsor ships.

As a key partner to the Executive Director, Board, and leadership team, the Development Director will not only meet annual fundraising goals but also cultivate a culture of philanthropy that engages donors, members, and the broader community.

Full-time

• Health, Vision and Dental coverage available
• Life Insurance
• 403(b) with match
• Health Savings Account
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• Employee Program Discounts / Professional Development Opportunities

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field (preferred, not mandatory).
• 5+ years of progressive fundraising/development experience in a nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success in individual giving, major gifts, grants, and event-based fundraising.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with grant writing experience preferred. Excellent relationship-builder with the ability to engage donors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with donor management systems (CRM).
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable balancing multiple projects.
• A passion for working as part of a broader team of professionals dedicated to enhancing Jewish community life in Nashville.
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, Jewish community and culture.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stay alert while sitting, standing, or walking for various lengths of time.
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends.

• Design and manage a multi-channel annual fundraising plan with clear goals.
• Partner with Finance to track and report progress against fundraising benchmarks.
• Partner with the Executive Director on major donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Manage relationships with mid-level and smaller donors, ensuring strong engagement and retention. Lead the annual appeal and donor recognition initiatives.
• Plan donor appreciation events and maintain accurate donor records.
• Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals to foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Manage grants calendar, ensuring timely applications and reports.
• Lead planning and execution of Big Night Out gala and other key fundraising events.
• Secure sponsors and donors while collaborating with program and marketing teams to maximize impact.
• Partner with staff to integrate fundraising opportunities into additional events.
• Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals by source (individuals, grants, events, sponsor ships).
• Expand and retain the donor base year over year.
• Deliver high-quality, well-attended fundraising events.
• Submit grant applications and reports in a timely manner.
• Establish strong, positive relationships with members and donors.