Find & Apply For Communications / Public Relations Manager Jobs in Williamsville, New York

Position Summary Lutheran Charities of Western New York is seeking an experienced and mission- driven Director of Communications and Development to lead the organization's fundraising, donor engagement, communications, and community outreach efforts. This position will be responsible for increasing awareness of Lutheran Charities, strengthening relationships with donors and community partners, and developing sustainable sources of financial support. The Director will work closely with the Board of Directors, member organizations, congregations, volunteers, and community partners to advance the organization's mission throughout Western New York. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, relationship builder, and strategic thinker who is comfortable managing both fundraising and communications initiatives. Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an annual fundraising and development plan.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual donors, foundations, corporations, congregations, and community partners.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing donors while developing new sources of support.
• Plan and manage annual giving campaigns, special appeals, sponsorships, and fundraising events.
• Research grant opportunities and coordinate the preparation and submission of grant applications.
• Maintain a calendar of grant deadlines, donor communications, campaigns, and fundraising activities.
• Develop donor recognition and stewardship programs.
• Work with leadership and the Board of Directors to identify prospective donors and strengthen community relationships.
• Establish measurable fundraising goals and regularly report on progress.
• Work with Office Administrator to maintain accurate donor records and ensure that contributions are properly acknowledged.
• Develop and implement an annual communications and marketing plan.
• Create clear and compelling messages that communicate the mission, programs, and community impact of Lutheran Charities.
• Manage the organization's website, email communications, newsletters, social media accounts, and other digital platforms.
• Write and edit press releases, donor communications, annual reports, program materials, brochures, presentations, and promotional content.
• Develop stories that highlight the individuals, families, agencies, and communities supported by Lutheran Charities.
• Maintain a consistent organizational brand, voice, and visual identity.
• Build relationships with local media and identify opportunities to increase public awareness.
• Coordinate photography, video, testimonials, and other content used to communicate the organization's work.
• Support crisis communications and public relations needs when necessary.
• Strengthen relationships with Lutheran congregations, affiliated organizations, nonprofit partners, businesses, and community leaders throughout Western New York.
• Represent Lutheran Charities at community meetings, church gatherings, networking events, and public programs.
• Develop opportunities for congregations, volunteers, donors, and community partners to become more involved in the organization's work.
• Coordinate presentations and informational programs for congregations and community groups.
• Promote collaboration among Lutheran Charities, its member agencies, and other community organizations.
• Work with Board of Directors and Office Administrator to establish development and communications priorities.
• Provide regular reports regarding fundraising results, donor activity, communications performance, and community engagement.
• Assist in the preparation and management of the annual development and communications budget with the Office Administrator.
• Recruit, coordinate, and support volunteers involved in fundraising, events, and community outreach.
• Develop policies and procedures related to donor confidentiality, gift acceptance, communications, and data management.
• Ensure that all fundraising and communications activities comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Perform other duties that support the mission and goals of Lutheran Charities of Western New York. Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 3-5 years experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, communications, marketing, community relations, or a related position.
• Demonstrated experience developing donor relationships and managing fundraising campaigns.
• Strong written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with grant research and grant writing is preferred.
• Ability to create engaging content for websites, newsletters, social media, and donor communications.
• Strong organizational and project-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, donor databases, email marketing systems, social media platforms, and website content-management tools.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with coworkers, board members, volunteers, congregations, and community partners.
• Attend occasional evening and weekend meetings, events, and community programs.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to travel throughout Western New York is required.
• Understanding of Lutheran traditions, faith-based organizations, or church-related ministries is helpful.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, discretion, and respect for donor confidentiality.
• Creative and entrepreneurial approach to fundraising and community engagement.
• Comfortable meeting new people, making presentations, and representing the organization publicly.
• Ability to communicate the organization's mission in a welcoming manner to people from diverse backgrounds, faith traditions, and communities. Measures of Success Success in this position will include:
• Growth in annual donations and overall financial support.
• Increased donor retention and engagement.
• Development of new corporate, foundation, congregational, and community partnerships.
• Increased public awareness of Lutheran Charities and its impact within the community.
• Consistent and professional communications across all platforms.
• Successful fundraising campaigns, events, and grant submissions.
• Strong engagement and increased relationships with member organizations, congregations, volunteers, and community leaders.

About Lutheran Charities of Western New York Lutheran Charities of Western New York works to strengthen and support charitable services that improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities throughout the region. Through collaboration, fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement, the organization connects people and resources with programs that provide meaningful care and assistance to those in need. Equal Opportunity Statement Lutheran Charities of Western New York is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Pay:

$45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Williamsville, NY 14221