🚀 Development Officer

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and passionate individual to lead and implement fundraising, grant research, and donor engagement initiatives. This individual will play a critical role in identifying, cultivating, and securing funding from a range of sources, including individual donors, corporations, and foundations. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of the Miami community and a proven track record in nonprofit development, particularly in acquiring new individual donors and corporate sponsors.

Key Responsibilities

• Fundraising Strategy: Work closely with the President and leadership team to execute a comprehensive fundraising plan focused on increasing revenue through individual donations, grants, and corporate sponsorships.
• Donor Cultivation & Stewardship: Build and maintain relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners to grow support and ensure long-term engagement. Develop and manage a portfolio of donors with the goal of securing gifts of $10,000 and over by creating and implementing successful cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies.
• Volunteer Collaboration: Work with members of the board of directors and volunteer committees to identify, cultivate, and solicit new donors.
• Grant Research & Management: Identify prospective grant opportunities aligned with Shake‑A‑Leg’s mission. Prepare compelling grant proposals, manage application timelines, and ensure timely submission of reports.
• Planned Giving: Develop and implement a planned giving program to engage long‑time supporters in leaving a legacy gift.
• Corporate Partnerships: Build connections with local businesses and develop sponsorship packages that align with mutual community engagement goals.
• Event Planning and Participation: Represent Shake‑A‑Leg Miami at galas, community, and professional events. Assist in the planning of donor‑focused events to raise visibility and support.

Expectations

• Achieve Fundraising Goals: Consistently meet or exceed monthly and annual fundraising targets. Connect with a minimum of 20 current and prospective donors each month.
• Grant Development: Deliver high‑quality proposals and secure grant funding that supports core programs and organizational growth.
• Community Engagement: Stay informed on philanthropic trends in the Miami area and align funding efforts with organizational and community priorities.
• Donor Relations: Cultivate meaningful connections within Miami’s philanthropic and corporate communities.
• Transparent Communication: Provide clear and consistent updates on development activities, funding progress, and upcoming opportunities.

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in nonprofit development or fundraising, with demonstrated success in grant writing and donor cultivation.
• Time Management & Detail‑Oriented: Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines, track donor activity and next steps, and produce timely solicitations and grant reports.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Miami’s philanthropic and business communities; existing relationships preferred.
• Strong Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tell compelling stories that inspire support.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with leadership, staff, and external stakeholders to support Shake‑A‑Leg’s mission.
• Event Experience: Skilled at planning and attending social and fundraising events.
• Flexible Work Schedule: Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends.