Organization Overview
The Texas Observer is a nonprofit news outlet and print magazine dedicated to investigative reporting, narrative storytelling, and cultural commentary in Texas. Since 1954, we have prioritized reporting that not only seeks to inform, but also to empower our readers and hold power to account. Our readers’ commitment to independent investigative journalism is a key component to the Observer’s long-term sustainability.
The Observer is hiring a Director of Development to lead its fundraising efforts. This is a key leadership position within the organization. The Texas Observer has a current annual budget of $1.2 million, with a goal of growing to $1.3 million in 2025.
Core Responsibilities:
- Create and implement a comprehensive development plan. The Director of Development will lead the management and execution of the Texas Observer’s fundraising efforts, with oversight including but not limited to membership acquisition, individual giving, Salesforce database administration, and fundraising events.
- Collaborate closely with the Executive Director (ED) to set ambitious yet achievable fundraising budget goals, backed by clear strategies and metrics.
- Develop and execute campaign strategies to increase individual philanthropic support for the Texas Observer’s journalism and strategic initiatives through its established membership program and single one-time gifts.
- Strengthen advancement processes, systems, content strategy, and prospect management to enhance unrestricted philanthropy and solicit mid-tier and major gifts under $10,000 from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
- Direct the creation and execution of donor events, including the MOLLY National Journalism Prize Gala, the Observer’s largest annual in-person fundraiser.
- Support the ED and Board of Directors in fundraising activities, helping to execute a comprehensive cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategy for major gift portfolios in order to maximize donor retention and engagement.
- Collaborate with staff, board members and consultants to lead the creation of compelling cases for support, general fundraising communication copy and materials, and build campaign readiness to further increase donor engagement.
- Assist the Executive Director with foundation prospecting, grant writing, and reporting.
- Work with the ED and board members to produce fundraising reports for meetings and committees and serve as the staff liaison to the Board Development Committee.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a proven track record in leadership, events, and gift solicitation.
- Media experience is strongly preferred but not required.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher preferred, or at least seven years of experience directly related to this position.
- Strong understanding of fundraising best practices, donor relations, and campaign management.
- Experience developing and analyzing financial reports, including budgets, revenue projections, and revenue tracking.
- Knowledge of Salesforce or similar database software.
- Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and inspire confidence among diverse stakeholders.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.
- Strong organizational skills and project management abilities.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice, aligned with the values and mission of the Texas Observer.
Location
Preferably based in the Texas Observer’s main office in Austin, Texas, where staff work on a hybrid schedule; however, exceptionally qualified candidates located elsewhere in Texas will also be considered.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000. The Texas Observer offers benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401K retirement plan with a 3% employer contribution match, generous PTO, paid parental leave, and holidays.
Application Process:
Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position, and two work samples (an email solicitation, case for support, grant introduction, etc.) to [email protected]. Application deadline is January 27, 2025.
We know some great candidates won’t meet every requirement in this job posting, and we also know you might bring valuable skills that we haven’t considered. If that’s you, don’t hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself.
The Texas Observer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe it’s critical that our organization adequately represent the demographics of the state we cover, and we’re committed to taking steps to meet that goal. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply for this role, including women, veterans, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, and people with disabilities.