Director of Development

The Organization:

The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) is the premier independent statewide institution responsible for collecting, examining, and teaching Georgia history. GHS houses the oldest and most distinguished collection of materials related exclusively to Georgia history in the nation. To learn more, go to

The Director of Development is responsible for supporting the GHS mission and vision through acquisition of funding necessary to expand and sustain GHS programs. This person will maintain a high level of understanding of the GHS model and exhibit passion for the GHS mission and oversee development and implementation of annual and campaign-specific fundraising plans designed to obtain philanthropic gifts to advance the GHS research and educational mission.

The Director of Development supports the efforts of the President/CEO, the Vice President/COO, the Board of Curators, key volunteers, and others to raise funds to meet specific measurable fundraising goals and monitor progress against those goals. Responsibilities will include creating and maintaining records and reports of development-related activities (e.g., campaign reports, donor reports). This role is responsible for formulating and supporting a funding strategy and for executing and/or overseeing the implementation of a development plan which deepens the commitment of existing donors, increases the number of overall supporters, and creates opportunities for all to contribute to GHS’s mission in practical and meaningful ways.

The successful candidate will be energized by the opportunity to strengthen the existing development program and enhance the fundraising results of GHS. GHS boasts an influential, dynamic Board of Curators comprised of leaders from across the state of Georgia; the board is actively engaged in development efforts. This is a full-time, benefited, position located in Savannah, GA.

Percentage of Role – 40%

Works with CEO and COO to develop, oversee, and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan inclusive of board, corporate, foundation, individual donor, and membership giving as well as development events. Oversees annual and ongoing campaigns, to include the Annual Appeal, Georgia History Festival, Endowment, and Planned Giving campaigns. This includes working with others to coordinate efforts of the CEO, COO, board members, and volunteers to solicit donations by researching, analyzing, and identifying major corporate, foundation, and individual donors, and assists with developing solicitation proposals and talking points for the CEO, board members, and other leadership as needed.

Works with the senior leadership team to identify funds needed and preferred funding targets and approaches. Identifies and cultivates major gift prospects, as well as corporate and foundation donors. Stewards relationships with existing donors implementing follow-up communication and expressing gratitude frequently and in a timely manner. Efforts are focused on advanced relationship building primarily over the phone to support institutional development plans and initiatives that support the CEO’s relationship building and development activities.

Working with others, creates proposals for corporations and grant making foundations and directs the necessary follow-up reports for funders related to all grant awards received. Drafts grant applications in a timely manner and maintains follow-up communication with foundation representatives. Works closely with PR/Communications to develop and execute effective donor communications and marketing materials including preparation of all fundraising appeals and materials, including targeted email, direct mail, and social media campaigns.

Percentage of Role – 25%

Oversees development and implementation of campaign strategies across campaigns to include acknowledgements and annual endowment reports to fund donors,…