Director of Development

Empowered by Light (EBL) is a Bay Area-based 501(c)3 nonprofit transforming lives through renewable energy. We have completed more than 130 projects in 10 countries, alleviating energy poverty and advancing education, health, conservation, and climate resilience. We are entering an exciting period of growth and seeking a strategic, relationship-driven development leader to help us reach the next level. We are rooted in our mission and guided by values of respect for all people, communities, and cultures. We strive to cultivate an inclusive workplace where every team member's contributions are valued.

About the role

EBL seeks a Director of Development to work closely with the Executive Director, Board, and Fundraising and Marketing Committee to raise $3 million in contributed revenue over the next two fiscal years, and to build the relationships, systems, and philanthropic partnerships that will support EBL’s mission and growth for years to come. This is a remote position open to all U.S. candidates, but San Francisco Bay Area-based candidates are preferred, with regular in-person engagement expected with donors, board members, and community partners.

Responsibilities

• Raise $3M in contributed revenue over two fiscal years.
• Grow EBL's major donor pipeline and stewardship program.
• Expand foundation and corporate partnerships.
• Build fundraising systems and donor engagement practices that support long-term growth.
• Increase board engagement in fundraising.
• Set and align EBL's long-term fundraising vision and annual revenue goals as part of a multi-year, donor-centered fundraising strategy.
• Develop and lead EBL's Major Gifts program, including prospect identification, personalized cultivation, solicitations, and stewardship.
• Maintain and develop a portfolio of individual donors and prospects, with emphasis on cultivating mid-level and major donors.
• Support and guide board members in fundraising and ambassadorship; staff the Board Development Committee.
• Oversee the foundation and institutional giving programs, including researching new partnerships, maintaining the grants calendar, and cultivating relationships with foundation staff.
• Build and grow a corporate revenue and sponsorship program from the ground up, identifying aligned partners and developing engagement strategies.
• Act as a visible ambassador for the organization at Bay Area community events, donor gatherings, and public-facing activities.
• Lead efforts to grow the donor base and deepen engagement through compelling communications and targeted acquisition strategies.
• Lead strategy and execution for fundraising events, ensuring strong ROI and an exceptional donor experience.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent professional experience clearly demonstrated.
• At least 3-5 years of fundraising experience, including experience leading major gifts, institutional giving, or development initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience asking for and closing major gifts.
• Track record of building and maintaining long-term relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporate partners.
• Experience planning and managing budgetary responsibilities.
• Demonstrated success securing foundation and institutional funding.
• Comfort working in a small, informal, and/or nonprofit environment.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Demonstrated success securing foundation or institutional funding.
• Excellent relationship-building and interpersonal skills; ability to inspire philanthropy through authentic engagement.
• Existing relationships with mission-relevant foundations or individual donors.
• Familiarity with advanced gift planning concepts and planned giving vehicles.
• Experience with digital fundraising, direct mail, and current trends in major gifts solicitation.
• Knowledge of nonprofit management best practices.
• Experience selecting or migrating a CRM (e.g., Bloomerang, Salesforce, or similar).
• Experience building or growing a corporate partnerships/sponsorship program.
• Experience training, coaching, or activating a board around fundraising.
• Bay Area-based candidates preferred.

Pay

The starting salary range for this position is:

• Tier 1 Cities: $140,000 to $160,000
• Tier 2 Cities: $120,000 to $140,000
• Tier 3 Cities: $100,000 to $120,000

Compensation is commensurate with qualifications, experience, and location.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Parental leave and disability coverage
• Remote work with flexible scheduling
• Professional development support