Job Description

Senior Director, Philanthropy

Reports to: President and COO

Department: Philanthropy

FLSA Status: FT/Exempt

Salary: $75,000

Position Summary

The Senior Director, Philanthropy leads strategic fundraising initiatives to advance the mission and long-term sustainability of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC) . Reporting to the President and COO, this role is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing comprehensive annual and major giving programs, with a particular focus on large gifts. The Senior Director oversees cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for individual, corporate, and foundation donors and plays a key leadership role in advancing estate and legacy giving initiatives.

The position serves as a thought partner to the President and COO in driving contributed revenue growth (currently exceeding $3 million annually) and strengthening systems, data integrity, and donor engagement across all giving levels.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the President and COO to develop and execute annual and long-term fundraising plans and budgets aligned with institutional priorities.
• Develop and oversee the management and execution of all annual fund initiatives, including but not limited to spring and fall appeals, direct solicitation of annual fund donors (calls, meetings, emails), and building relationships with annual fund donors to increase their engagement with NURFC.
• Identify and engage new prospects, including individuals, foundations, and corporations, to expand the base of philanthropic support.
• Develop and implement cultivation plans for donors and prospects to increase engagement with, and financial support of, NURFC. Coordinate opportunities for the President & COO to meet with potential donors.
• Lead annual giving initiatives, including appeals, campaigns, digital and social media fundraising, and donor acquisition and retention strategies including the International Freedom Conductors Awards Gala honoring prestigious social justice leaders.
• Develop compelling proposals, sponsorship packages, and stewardship materials that communicate NURFC’s impact and inspire giving.
• Oversee the estate and planned giving strategy, including the management of NURFC’s legacy society and integration of estate giving options into existing donor communications.
• Support and collaborate with the Philanthropy Committee of the Board of Directors.
• Manage and support the professional growth of direct reports, including development interns or staff.
• Represent NURFC at community and donor events to enhance visibility and philanthropic relationships. Collaborate with consultants, volunteers, auxiliary groups and partners.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the President & COO.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required ; an advanced degree or business-related studies preferred.
• Five years plus of progressive fundraising experience , with demonstrated success in major and annual giving programs with a preference given to annual giving management and project/event management skills.
• Familiarity with museum, cultural, or mission-driven nonprofit environments strongly desired.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with superior attention to detail.
• Strategic thinker with strong organizational and project management capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, collaboratively, and cross-functionally to meet deadlines and goals.
• Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge (NXT) or similar donor management systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite .
• High level of discretion and professionalism in handling confidential donor information.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends for events or donor engagements.

Additional Information

• Full-time, on-site position located at 50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 .
• Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with occasional evenings or weekends for events or deadlines.
• On-site parking provided.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center , we are dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community. We believe innovation and progress thrive when all voices are heard and valued. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

NURFC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category.

Join Us

If you are passionate about using philanthropy to drive social impact and build a lasting legacy of freedom and justice, apply today at freedomcenter.org/jobs or send your résumé to [email protected] .

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of background and reference checks.

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