Director of Development - Michigan State Bar Foundation

Job Description

Job Description

The Michigan State Bar Foundation (MSBF)is seeking an experienced Director of Development to lead statewide fundraising strategies, oversee the Access to Justice Campaign , and manage MSBF’s Fellows Program. This leadership position will refine and advance MSBF’s development practices, focusing on building strong donor relationships within Michigan’s legal community. This is a hybrid position located in Lansing, MI.

Founded in 1947, MSBF is committed to advancing access to justice through funding for civil legal aid and public education about the legal system. With over $210 million in grants awarded, MSBF supports essential services for low-income individuals. MSBF’s programs also focus on educating the public about legal rights, the justice system, and alternative dispute resolution.

Strategic Planning and Implementation

• Lead MSBF’s statewide fundraising and development strategy , emphasizing annual results and best practices.
• Develop an annual development plan, including strategies for major gifts, planned giving, and partnership opportunities with other philanthropic organizations and state agencies.
• Regularly analyze and report on the Access to Justice Campaign (ATJ) progress, recommending adjustments to the Steering Committee to enhance fundraising.

Team Leadership

• Supervise, mentor, and provide professional development for four direct reports, fostering a collaborative, high-performance team.
• Set clear objectives, evaluate staff performance, and encourage a growth-oriented work environment.

Donor and Fundraising Management

• Cultivate relationships with major donors, legal aid programs, and volunteer board and committee members.
• Oversee donor identification, solicitation, and stewardship efforts to build strong relationships with philanthropic supporters, including law firms and individual attorneys, following fundraising best practices
• Implement innovative strategies to engage and retain donors, ensuring effective use of donor management software for accurate tracking and acknowledgment.

Event Planning and Management

• Manage the efficient and cost-effective use of staff and volunteer time in organizing awareness-building events with Michigan State Bar members
• Oversee event preparation to achieve maximum impact within approved budgets, ensuring a strong return on investment (ROI)

Communications and Marketing

• Oversee the Manager of Communications in developing MSBF’s fundraising materials, including brochures, newsletters, and online content.
• Promote MSBF’s mission and impact through cost-effective outreach channels, including social media, press releases, and community engagement.

Administration and Budget Management

• Develop and oversee the development and fundraising department budget, ensuring adherence to financial targets.
• Establish and maintain best practices for gift processing, confidentiality, and fundraising policies.
• Monitor and analyze fundraising metrics to inform ongoing strategy adjustments.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Partner with the Executive Director, ATJ Steering Committee, Board of Directors, and fundraising committees to emphasize the importance of civil legal aid.
• Collaborate across the MSBF team to support shared values and uphold respect for recipients of the funds raised.

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management , Business , or related field; CFRE or advanced studies preferred
• 7+ years of experience in nonprofit development or fundraising, with at least 3 years in a management role
• Proven success in meeting and exceeding fundraising goals.
• Strong understanding of planned giving and experience in donor management
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and networking skills
• Proficiency in donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to multitask, work independently, and apply best practices in nonprofit development

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• A collaborative, hybrid work environment that values integrity, adaptability, and teamwork
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact through community-focused fundraising and equitable grantmaking

Apply Now to Join MSBF’s Mission

This role is ideal for an experienced Director of Development passionate about nonprofit fundraising and committed to justice. If you’re ready to lead impactful initiatives and foster community-centered donor relationships, apply today to join MSBF’s mission-driven team.

The Michigan State Bar Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in its workforce, creating an inclusive environment, and encouraging members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with disabilities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The Michigan State Bar Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), age, disability/handicap, height, weight, marital status, familial status, veteran status, citizenship, or any other classification protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.

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