Donor Development Specialist

We are seeking a highly connected, relationship-driven Donor Relations & Development Specialist with current, strong ties to Ventura County . This role focuses on cultivating meaningful relationships with individual donors, foundations, and community partners to secure major gifts and long-term support. Aplicant must have worked in the area and already have some donor relationships. This is a front-facing role for someone who is confident meeting with high-net-worth individuals, making asks, and representing the organization professionally in the community. A comprehensive Capital Campaign media kit is currently being developed by a professional team and will be available soon. Nate's Place currently has a robust fundraising foundation, including a scheduled October golf tournament, multiple house parties and events led by staff and volunteers, and two grant writers. This position is dedicated to growing philanthropic revenue by building relationships with high-net-worth individuals and foundations. Key Responsibilities Donor Cultivation & Major Gifts Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and corporate donors. Schedule and attend in-person donor meetings alongside leadership (and independently when appropriate). Support and participate in major gift asks , including capital campaign contributions. Leverage existing personal and professional networks within Ventura County. Pipeline Development Maintain a consistent pipeline of qualified donor prospects Generate a minimum of 5+ meaningful donor/sponsor/partner contacts per week Track outreach, follow-ups, and outcomes Foundation & Grant Support (Relationship-Based) Utilize and develop relationships with local and regional foundations Support introductions for co-founder and grant writer and positioning for funding opportunities (in partnership with leadership) Community Engagement Represent Nate's Place at community events, meetings, and networking opportunities Help support house parties, tours, and small donor gatherings CRM & Systems (Neon CRM) Track all donor activity in Neon CRM Maintain accurate records of contacts, notes, and next steps Assist with donor segmentation and reporting Collaboration Work closely with Co-founder/Program Director and Donor Development team on strategy, messaging, and donor approach. Coordinate with internal team on events, communications, and follow-up. Qualifications Required Proven track record in fundraising, sales, or relationship-based business development. Established connections in Ventura County (donors, business leaders, foundations, or community influencers). Strong interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable making direct asks. Professional presence and ability to represent the organization externally. Experience managing a pipeline and meeting measurable goals. Comfortable using CRM systems (experience with Neon CRM a plus). Preferred Experience securing major gifts ($10K+). Existing relationships with local foundations or philanthropic networks. Background in nonprofit development. Experience supporting capital campaigns. Success in This Role Looks Like Building a strong pipeline of qualified donors Securing new major gifts and sponsorships Increasing donor engagement and retention Expanding Nate's Place visibility and relationships across Ventura County erview

Pay:

$35.00 - $50.00 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Oxnard, CA 93035