Director of Development
Location: Buffalo, NY 14226
Summary: Temple Beth Zion (TBZ) is seeking a full time Director of Development to lead the development and execution of the organization’s fundraising strategy in partnership with the Executive Director and President to meet the organization’s annual operating budget and current capital campaign.
Responsibilities:
• Secure the resources necessary to enable the work of the temple through contributed revenue for annual operating needs and the capital campaign.
• Collaborate with senior leadership including the President, Senior Rabbi and Executive Director to develop and execute a comprehensive development strategy aligned with the organizations fundraising goals.
• Complete capital campaign for building improvements and building endowment,
$3 million remaining
• Fulfill new major gift programs around membership dues and program sponsorship. Develop and implement the organization’s major donor strategy
• Develop and execute the 175th Anniversary gala on May 17, 2025 to raise $175k+
• Cultivate relationships with individual donors, foundations and corporate partners. Create and execute strategies to expand the donor base, including major gifts
• Work with the President on planned giving initiatives through the Life & Legacy Program in conjunction with the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies
• Develop and manage special events for donors at varying levels
• Work with communications manager to promote events and ensure donor attendance and visibility
• Regularly communicate with donors to provide updates on impact of their contributions including through monthly printed bulletin, bi-weekly emails and social media
• oversee the organization’s donor database and ensure accurate records, generate reports and analyze fundraising data
• Monitor donor engagement metrics and adjust strategies to enhance relationships and revenue
• Develop, cultivate, and manage institutional fundraising relationships with potential public grant makers and private foundations
• Work closely with leadership, board members and volunteers to maximize fundraising opportunities.
• Support the President in activating the Board of Trustees as ambassadors for fundraising through strategy sessions, committee work, and training, as needed, to develop a culture of philanthropy
• Reports to the Executive Director
Qualifications:
• Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor cultivation and engagement, raising $500,000+/year preferred
• Must have knowledge of capital campaign fundraising, annual giving campaigns and grant research/writing
• Familiarity with databases and fundraising software
• Passion for the temple’s work, facilities and role in the community
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross functions teams
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills
• Understanding of ethical fundraising practices and donor confidentiality
• Knowledge of Jewish holidays and customs is a plus