Employment Opportunity

Deputy Director

The Center for Northern Woodlands Education seeks an experienced and talented full-time Deputy Director (DD) to work closely with the Executive Director (ED) and the Board of Directors to promote the mission of the Center, to provide direct assistance in developing resources that support the programs of the Center, and to manage and develop programs. 

Reporting to the ED, and with the assistance of the Administrative Coordinator, the DD will organize a program of philanthropy and institutional resource development, identifying, cultivating and soliciting, or organizing the solicitation of, the major donors to the Center. The DD will also identify corporate and foundation sources for funding, develop relationships with those organizations, and prepare proposals that promote the mission. 

The DD will manage the work of the Board of Directors in identifying, engaging, and soliciting high-level supporters. The DD will work with the Administrative Coordinator to enhance prospect management and reporting systems, as well as all donor stewardship activities. The outcome of these measures will be the expansion of the base of support and funds raised for the Center.

Under the supervision of the ED, the DD will participate in program evaluation and renewal, as well as in identifying and developing new programs for the Center. 

The mission of the Center is to encourage a culture of forest stewardship in the Northeast by producing and distributing media content to increase understanding of and appreciation for the natural wonders, economic productivity, and ecological integrity of the region’s forests.

Responsibilities

Resource Development

Develop and oversee a program of resource development across the non-profit funding spectrum—philanthropy, sponsorship, foundation grants, planned giving and direct mail appeals

Develop and implement effective strategies and procedures for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individual, corporate, and foundation donors, as well as government sources

Work with ED and Board to secure major gift support for the Center and its projects

Work with the ED to ensure that the Center is in regular and personal contact with top prospects and donors

Review and analyze information gathered through prospect research to identify and qualify major gift prospects

Management

Supervise staff members to develop systems that report on and support all areas of resource development

Oversee planning, coordination, and implementation of a direct-mail appeal campaign

Oversee planning, coordination, and implementation of a corporate sponsorship campaign

Direct research of foundations, relationship building with foundation staff, and grant applications preparation

Oversee maintenance of accurate donor files

Provide evaluation and analysis of all fundraising activities and make program adjustments as appropriate

Supervise planning and implementation of special events to motivate donors and enhance the image of the Center

Oversee production of Heartwood, the Center’s newsletter, and other informational materials, including an annual report and a brochure

Leadership

Support the ED and the Board in evaluating programs and activities sponsored by the Center

Participate in the development and implementation of new programs and activities

Develop and nurture relationships with key partners, and represent the Center to the public as needed

Assist in other aspects of the Center’s operations and programs as needed

Qualifications

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree required, plus three or more years of relevant management or executive leadership experience, with particular emphasis on fundraising or membership experience, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills have been acquired. In addition, the candidate shall have significant experience in rural areas of the Northeast, with background and knowledge in at least one of the following: forestry, conservation, ecology, recreation. A dedication to the Center’s ideals and work in fostering stewardship of our forests is essential. She or he will demonstrate:

Excellent planning, organizational, analytical, and budget management skills;

Strong interpersonal skills and excellent oral and written communications skills;

Relevant experience in implementing and maintaining computerized records system for fundraising programs;

Pertinent computer skills, including relevant word processing, online research, and database experience;

A proven ability to think and work independently, to solve practical problems, and to enjoy working with a wide range of people;

Interest and skills in creating systems and managing details;

Experience in and commitment to non-profit development and marketing;

Ability to work cooperatively with the Center’s staff, Board, membership and various outside individuals/organizations.

An understanding of and interest in the Center’s stewardship education work;

Experience living in and working with rural communities, like those in northern New England or New York; and

An interest in a career with the Center that includes an opportunity for advancement.

Application

The position is based in Corinth, Vermont. Salary and benefits are commensurate with being a small and entrepreneurial non-profit. Please send a letter of application, resume, two writing samples, and contact information for three references to: Stephen Long, Northern Woodlands, PO Box 471, Corinth, VT 05039. No phone calls, please.