The Bronx Defenders provides free legal representation and an array of supportive services to clients and their families with criminal, family and civil matters before the Bronx County Court. In 1997, with eight advocates on staff, we opened our doors intent on helping residents of one of the most economically depressed and under-resourced communities in New York City. That small group of pioneers founded a new practice to address the failures and limitations of the traditional public defense model, a one-size-fits-all approach, embedded in a system with an over-reliance on incarceration.
The Bronx Defenders’ Holistic Defense model brings lawyers, social workers, community organizers and other advocates under one roof. Our professional, experienced and compassionate team dig in and address the root causes of each client’s involvement with the justice system; guiding some of the poorest New Yorkers through times of crisis and onto a pathway of growth and opportunity.
The Bronx Defenders seeks an experienced, entrepreneurial development professional to lead and expand our fundraising program.
Job Responsibilities
- Work with the Executive Management Team, Director of Communications, Director of Pro Bono, and Grants Manager to develop short and long-term strategies to build our donor base and increase revenue.
- Regularly evaluate strategies to make sure they are meeting the organization’s short and long term needs and priorities. Communicate development goals and progress to the Executive Management Team.
- Develop systems that maintain and expand the organization’s donor base of individuals, law firms, foundations, corporations, and local, state and federal government; facilitate research, prospecting, and application to multiple donor sources; ensure long-term donor engagement and retention; and support the successful completion of annual campaigns.
- Work collaboratively with the Executive Management Team to research, prepare for, and actively participate in major donor meetings.
- Keep abreast of changes and innovations in federal/state tax laws relevant to donors.
- Oversee the planning, organization and execution of the annual gala, as well as other fundraising events throughout the year.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree in Non-profit Management, Public Administration or Business a plus.
- At least 5 years’ experience in fundraising/development, preferably as a Director and in a legal/political nonprofit organization.
- Experience in planning, leading, and managing development projects and their budgets, including coordinating with colleagues to achieve desired outcomes, and tracking and reporting on progress to managers.
- Demonstrated excellence in communicating, writing, presenting and interpersonal skills.
- Experience interacting with trustees, high profile donors, organizational directors, and foundation leadership and program staff.
- Experience researching, prospecting and cultivating new sources of support from all sectors (individual, philanthropic, corporate, governmental), and in strategically identifying appropriate “targets” for particular bodies of work.
- Strong understanding of and hands-on experience with multiple fundraising software programs and donor databases.
- Highly self-motivated with the ability to “own” projects and a “get it done”
- Ability to collaborate effectively with many types of people.
- Strong analytical, organizational and administrative skills.
- Ability to manage ad prioritize multiple tasks.
- Must embrace, support and promote the organizational mission of The Bronx Defenders.
Application Process
To apply, submit a résumé and cover letter, detailing your interest in the position and The Bronx Defenders, electronically via email to jobs@bronxdefenders.org by the end of business on May 25, 2016, and placing “Director of Development” in the subject line. Résumés will only be accepted electronically.
No faxes or phone calls please. Applications will be accepted immediately and will be considered on a rolling basis.
For any questions please contact Craig Levine, Managing Director – Civil Practice & External Affairs at craigl@bronxdefenders.org.
All interviews will take place at the Bronx Defenders Justice Campus in Bronx, New York.
The Bronx Defenders is an equal opportunity employer: People of color; women; people with disabilities; gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people; and people with personal experience with the criminal justice system are welcome and encouraged to apply.