Director of Development

Science North is seeking a Director of Development who brings a passion for building relationships and a proven ability to grow philanthropic support that advances organizational priorities. This is an opportunity to strengthen the resources that sustain exceptional science experiences, expand access to science learning, and support our impact across Northern Ontario.

Reporting directly to the CEO and serving as a member of the Executive Team, the Director leads Science North's development strategy and team, working closely with colleagues to translate organizational priorities into compelling opportunities for donor and partner support. The immediate focus is on growing ongoing philanthropic revenue, deepening existing relationships, and securing support for core operations, programs and strategic initiatives.

The successful candidate will combine fundraising expertise with sound judgment, a collaborative leadership approach, and a willingness to work hands-on with a small team. They will contribute to Science North's overall success through thoughtful partnership with colleagues, strong donor stewardship and measurable fundraising results.

Reporting directly to the CEO, and overseeing a team of 1-4 staff, the Director of Development will:

• Develop and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with Science North's strategic priorities and financial sustainability goals.
• Grow support from individuals, corporations and foundations, with an emphasis on unrestricted giving, annual support, major gifts and multi-year partnerships.
• Personally lead the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of key donors and prospects, engaging the CEO, colleagues and Board volunteers where their involvement can strengthen relationships.
• Build a strong pipeline of prospective supporters and develop compelling funding opportunities for Science North's programs, experiences and community impact.

• Deepen relationships with existing supporters through thoughtful engagement, timely communication and meaningful recognition.
• Develop stewardship plans that demonstrate the impact of contributions and encourage renewed and increased support.
• Coordinate relationship responsibilities across the organization, ensuring a consistent experience for donors and partners.
• Maintain accurate, current donor records and relationship histories to support shared knowledge, effective follow-through and continuity.

• Contribute actively to the Executive Team, bringing fundraising expertise and sharing accountability for Science North's overall success.
• Work with colleagues to translate organizational priorities into compelling proposals that reflect program needs, operational capacity and the full cost of delivery.
• Assess prospective opportunities for strategic alignment, net financial contribution and ongoing commitments, securing internal agreement before making commitments to supporters.
• Foster productive working relationships through early consultation, open communication and constructive problem-solving.

• Work with communications and program colleagues to tell compelling stories about Science North's impact and the difference philanthropic support makes.
• Develop persuasive proposals, cases for support and donor communications that connect supporter interests with organizational priorities.
• Guide fundraising events and campaigns with clear objectives for revenue, relationship development and stewardship.

• Lead, coach and support a small Development team, setting clear priorities and contributing directly to fundraising activities.
• Develop and manage the unit's budget, ensuring responsible use of resources and attention to fundraising effectiveness.
• Establish realistic targets and provide timely forecasts and reporting on revenue, fundraising costs, donor retention and pipeline development.
• Uphold ethical fundraising practices, donor confidentiality and accountability for donor commitments, working closely with Finance and other colleagues.

• Postsecondary education in fundraising, business, communications or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• At least seven years of progressive fundraising experience, including demonstrated success leading a team or development function.
• A proven record of…