Department: Development
Location: Washington, D.C.
Schedule: Flexible hybrid, minimum 3 days in-office per week; occasionally a nontraditional work week for fundraising events and will require travel.
Job Status: Full-Time
Experience: A minimum of 7 years of development experience, 3 years of management experience preferred.
Salary: $180,000-$210,000 plus a generous benefits package.
Reports to: Executive Vice President
The Niskanen Center
Named “the most interesting think tank in American politics” by Time magazine in March 2023, the Niskanen Center promotes policies that advance prosperity, opportunity, and human flourishing, guided by the belief that a free market and an effective government are mutually dependent.
We are forging a new vision of American governance that draws on ideas from across the ideological spectrum, an approach made possible by our independence from rigid political coalitions. Our ideological openness gives us credibility to work with a broad range of actors, meeting them on their own terms and helping them converge on policies they might support for different reasons. We thus aspire to be a voice for the hopes and ambitions of Americans who feel shut out by the hostility of our politics.
The Position
The Niskanen Center is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Development to lead our fundraising efforts, driving the growth of unrestricted funds that support our vision of advancing prosperity, opportunity, and human flourishing. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with a proven track record in fundraising for mission-driven organizations, coupled with a deep understanding of and passion for Niskanen’s unique approach to policy formation and advocacy.
The Director of Development will assist in expanding NIskanen’s fundraising capacity, in raising the organization’s visibility and positioning Niskanen as a leader among bipartisan think tanks in Washington, D.C. The ideal candidate will have had a career in development including experience in strategic planning, the implementation of an annual appeal, major gifts campaigns, event planning, corporate sponsorships, and planned giving initiatives. In addition, knowledge of how to effectively market and communicate the mission and values of Niskanen, both internally and externally, as well as knowledge and experience in prospect tracking, stewardship, and financial reporting procedures, and all aspects of revenue development programs are desired. The Director of Development works collaboratively with all policy departments, support staff, and the President.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with Niskanen’s mission to promote a modern political coalition grounded in the synergy between a free market and an effective government. Provide strategic direction to the Development team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
- Fundraising Growth: Spearhead efforts to expand and diversify Niskanen’s fundraising base, with a particular focus on increasing individual donor support that ensures the organization’s sustainability and flexibility in pursuing its mission. Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, cultivating long-term relationships and identifying new opportunities for engagement.
- Collaboration & Mentorship: Work closely with the President, Executive Vice President, leadership team, and policy departments to integrate fundraising goals with organizational priorities. Build and manage a high-performing team. Mentor and empower Development staff, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to excel in grant management, prospect research, and donor stewardship.
- Donor Engagement: Articulate Niskanen’s mission, vision, and policy initiatives compellingly to potential and existing donors. Support the stewardship efforts of Niskanen’s leadership, ensuring that major donors and prospects are consistently engaged and informed about the impact of their contributions.
Qualifications:
- Experience: A minimum of 7 years of experience in development, with a focus on fundraising for policy-oriented or mission-driven organizations. At least three years of managerial experience preferred.
- Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to convey complex political and policy ideas in an accessible and persuasive manner. Strong strategic thinking and organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, Salesforce, and other database systems.
- Knowledge: A deep understanding of the political and policy landscape, particularly around the principles that guide Niskanen’s work, including a commitment to pragmatic, boundary-crossing political thought and practice.
- Values Alignment: A clear appreciation for Niskanen’s commitment to fostering a free market economy, effective government, and social insurance as mutually reinforcing pillars of a flourishing society.
Benefits and Diversity Commitment
Unlimited paid time off; office is closed on all federal holidays plus the week between Christmas and New Years; paid parental leave; 100% health, dental and vision insurance for the employee; 403(b) plan with 4% organization contribution, no vesting period; commuter benefits in D.C.
Niskanen Center is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. We also seek to expand our professional networks and workplace composition to better reflect our dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion.
How to Apply
We will review applications after the deadline: applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm ET on September 22, 2024. Please include a cover letter and resume. Be prepared to present additional materials during the interview process.
Use the link below to apply. No phone calls, please.