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VP, Development NEW

Akron, Ohio
National Inventors Hall of Fame
The Vice President of Development is responsible for the overall fundraising strategy, revenue growth, and philanthropic sustainability of the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF). This role provides visionary leadership for all fundraising functions, including major gifts, corporate and foundation partnerships, grants, individual giving, and donor stewardship. The successful candidate is a strong leader, passionate about the mission of NIHF and the impact of our nonprofit organization.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Leadership & Revenue Growth
  • In partnership with the Chief Strategic Officer, the VP of Development will:
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with NIHF’s strategic objectives and organizational priorities.
  • Establish and achieve annual fundraising goals across all programs and revenue streams.
  • Provide oversight of pipeline development, solicitation strategies, and stewardship models.
  • Analyze fundraising performance metrics and trends to inform strategy, forecast revenue, and continuously improve results.
  • Oversee funding trends to help position NIHF ahead of funding opportunities and changes.
  • Personally manage and solicit a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, including transformational and leadership-level gifts from high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and foundations.
  • Ensure best-in-class donor stewardship that fosters long-term donor engagement, trust, and investment in NIHF.
  • Advance NIHF’s public profile and philanthropic brand nationally by traveling to champion our mission, serving as a philanthropic ambassador to strengthen NIHF’s visibility.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Fundraising Team Leadership:

  • Mentor and lead a world-class development team, fostering the culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate to align fundraising initiatives with Sales, Marketing, and program teams.
  • Manage clear expectations, performance goals, and development plans for the fundraising team.
  • Ensure effective systems, processes, and tools (e.g., CRM, reporting, prospect research) to support efficient fundraising operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Energetic and creative individual who is a strategic thinker with a passion for NIHF and connecting people with our mission and programs.
  • Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and presentation skills with diverse stakeholders.
  • Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and comfort using data to drive decision-making.
  • High standard of professional and ethical conduct, integrity, and accountability.
  • Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and fundraising analytics tools.
  • Ability to regularly work in the office and attend in-person meetings.
  • Flexible, adaptable, professional, and resourceful style.
  • The ability to work independently and as a team player, to take initiative, and to manage multiple tasks and projects at a time.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to regularly work in the office and attend in-person meetings.
  • Ability to communicate effectively via email, chat, phone, and in-person meetings.
  • Requires regular, reliable, and on-time attendance.

Credentials and Experience:

  • 10+ years of professional experience in a nonprofit organization with demonstrated fundraising success in securing transformational and major gifts.
  • Experience in creating budgets and forecasting revenue.
  • Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and implement strategic development plans.
  • Bachelor’s degree required.

Why Join the National Inventors Hall of Fame?

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy top-tier medical, dental, vision, and insurance plans, along with flexible spending accounts to help pay for any out-of-pocket medical expenses.
  • Company-Paid Benefits: NIHF contributes 100% to provide life and disability coverages.
  • Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match and 100% vesting upon initial contribution, ensuring your financial stability and growth.
  • Generous Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end closure from December 24th through January 1st to recharge.
  • Additional Support: Access Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Supplemental Income plans for extra peace of mind.
  • Pet-Friendly Perks: Protect your furry friends with our pet insurance plans.
  • Stay Fit and Healthy: Utilize our on-site workout facility to maintain your physical well-being.
  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Enjoy alternate workday scheduling and the option for hybrid remote work after 90 days, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
  • Thriving Work Environment: Be part of a great team environment with ample opportunities for growth and a culture that prioritizes professional development.

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