The Director of Development is a senior leader and crucial partner to Pewabic's new Executive Director, responsible for designing, leading, and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances the organization's mission, financial sustainability, and long-term growth. This role calls for an entrepreneurial, self-directed fundraiser — someone ambitious about building and stewarding a growing portfolio of donors and institutional partners. The Director of Development will be instrumental in shaping Pewabic's next strategic chapter through the expansion of individual and institutional giving, broadening Pewabic's reach and impact for years to come. The Director of Development oversees all aspects of contributed revenue — major gifts, annual giving, institutional funding, events, and donor stewardship — and serves as a key member of the leadership team, working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and staff to build a strong culture of philanthropy across the organization.
Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with organizational priorities.
Work collaboratively with the Executive Director, staff, and Board to set annual revenue goals and long-term development plans.
Provide regular reporting and analysis on fundraising performance, pipeline, and trends.
Collaborate with communications and marketing to develop compelling print and digital materials that tell Pewabic’s story and make a powerful case for support to prospective donors and funders.
Build and manage a robust portfolio of major donors and prospects; cultivate, solicit, and steward donors at all levels; partner with the Executive Director and Board to expand Pewabic’s donor base.
Oversee foundation, corporate, and government grant strategy; build and maintain strong relationships with institutional funders; ensure timely submission of proposals, reports, and compliance requirements.
Design and execute annual fund strategies including appeals, digital campaigns, and donor segmentation; lead special campaigns for capital, endowment, or other initiatives as applicable.
Oversee development-related events, including Pewabic’s Garden Party, ensuring they align with fundraising goals and deepen donor engagement.
Partner with the Board of Trustees and Development Committee to strengthen trustee involvement in fundraising, providing tools, training, and guidance.
Oversee donor database, gift processing, reporting, and development budget management; engage, manage, and develop staff and consultants to foster a high-performing, collaborative team.
5–10+ years of progressive fundraising experience, with demonstrated success in major gifts and institutional funding
Proven track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals
Experience working with Boards and senior leadership
Strong relationship-building and communication skills
Strategic thinker with the ability to execute and deliver results
Familiarity with CRM systems and development operations
Passion for arts, culture, and community impact
Background in arts, culture, or mission-driven nonprofit organizations
Experience with capital or endowment campaigns
Knowledge of the metro Detroit philanthropic landscape
lease submit a resume, brief cover letter describing your interest in Pewabic and this role, and up to two writing samples from a current or previous role. Writing samples may include a donor proposal, stewardship or solicitation letter, grant proposal, development report, or other development-related communication. Accompany writing samples with a brief paragraph describing your role in its creation, and redact any confidential donor or organizational information prior to submission. Send materials to hr@pewabic.org.