Director of Annual Giving

Company: YMCA
Location: Basking Ridge
Posted on: July 10, 2025

Job Description:

An exciting opportunity to join the Development team of a progressive YMCA association located in NJ is currently available at GSCY. Job Description The Director of Annual Giving is responsible for leading the Ys philanthropic efforts through the strategic planning and execution of the annual giving program, including donor recognition, volunteer and staff education, and major gift development. This individual will work in an energetic, collaborative environment as part of the Philanthropy team, reporting to the Chief Philanthropy Officer. The Director will work closely with volunteers and staff across seven centers, fostering a culture of philanthropy and belonging, and cultivating a sense of community among Y members, donors, prospects, and staff. A commitment to advancing the Ys mission, values, and strategic goals is expected, as well as ensuring continued philanthropic growth to meet the needs of GSCY. This role centers equity in fundraising, ensuring that all engagement strategies are inclusive, accessible and representative of the diverse communities the Y serves. The Director also plays a key role in the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major donors, working directly with prospects capable of making leadership-level gifts to support the YMCAs mission. Because of the wide scope of responsibilities, this position calls for a person of professional maturity, sound judgment and inclusive leadership qualities. Qualifications Bachelors degree or equivalent education/experience. 3–5 years of successful experience in development, including annual giving and major gifts. Experience working with and coaching volunteers. Strong knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor engagement. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate respectfully and inclusively with diverse stakeholders. Proven success in project/event management. Demonstrated experience cultivating and soliciting major gifts, including face-to-face donor engagement. Ability to collect data, analyze trends, and solve problems. Proficiency in spreadsheets and business software systems. CFRE credential preferred or commitment to ongoing fundraising professional development. Commitment to the Y’s values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, and an understanding of equity principles in nonprofit development. Essential Functions Lead planning and coaching for branch staff and volunteer leadership to achieve annual fundraising goals through tailored strategies for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting charitable gifts. Implement and support annual giving strategies that increase donor retention, acquisition, and overall campaign success, including volunteer training and engagement. Serve as the liaison between the Association Office and Executive Directors to ensure alignment of fundraising strategies with each branchs community-informed priorities. Plan and manage the annual campaign kick-off, donor celebration, and recognition events. Facilitate regular progress check-ins with branch leadership and volunteers; adjust strategies as needed to ensure campaign goals are met. Accompany staff and volunteers on donor solicitations as appropriate. Manage a personal portfolio of mid-level and major gift donors ($1,000), including individuals, families, and family foundations with an emphasis on securing leadership-level gifts. Collaborate with the Chief Philanthropy Officer and branch leadership to develop individualized strategies for top prospects and donors with the capacity to make significant contributions. Develop and implement donor cultivation and recognition programs across the association. Identify and address internal and external factors affecting philanthropy effectiveness. Assist in planning and coordination of association-wide special events and projects; support recruitment of committee members and event volunteers. Serve as an exempt staff member performing additional duties as assigned to support the Philanthropy Department. Contribute to developing messaging and materials that reflect inclusive language and the Y’s commitment to equity in philanthropy. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Ys values in the organization and community. Communicates the benefits and impact of the Ys work, develops volunteers, and secures philanthropic support. Champions inclusive philanthropy and embeds equity in fundraising strategy and donor engagement. Collaboration: Develops inclusive strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships and communicates effectively to garner support. Quality Results: Strives to meet or exceed goals, ensuring high-value experiences for donors. Operational Effectiveness: Uses data and community input to inform decisions, ensures plan execution, and drives continuous improvement. Benefits of working full-time at GSCY include: FREE family membership to Greater Somerset County YMCA, including full access to all of our branch facilities including Bridgewater YMCA, Hillsborough YMCA, Princeton YMCA, Somerset Hills YMCA and Somerville YMCA. FREE nationwide membership with access to over 2,500 YMCA locations across the country Discounted program fees Paid sick leave and short-term disability insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Generous 12% retirement contribution to the YMCA Retirement Fund after eligibility period (no employee contribution required) Medical and dental insurance with prescription coverage Vision insurance Flexible Spending Account for medical and/or dependent care 100% contribution towards life insurance and long-term disability Optional additional life insurance and dependent life insurance available at low rates 403(b) Smart Savings Plan Generous paid time off policy 7 paid holidays Greater Somerset County YMCA is a drug free work environment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information who share our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.

Keywords: YMCA, Sayreville , Director of Annual Giving, Administration, Clerical , Basking Ridge, New Jersey