The Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA) is seeking an innovative and results-oriented Fund Development Director to lead our fundraising and stakeholder engagement efforts. This individual will play a pivotal role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the world’s first Indigenous journalism association while growing a network of engaged supporters across the globe.

The ideal candidate will be a relationship-driven professional with a strong passion for supporting Indigenous journalism, media representation, and the advancement of Indigenous voices in the media landscape. This role will be responsible for cultivating donor relationships, securing grants, managing sponsorships and developing fundraising strategies that align with IJA’s goals and vision.

The salary for this full-time position starts at $85,000, and includes an additional monthly stipend for health and communication benefits. The position will be a one-year contract with the potential of extending. This is a remote position with a flexible 40-hour work week. Travel is required.

Responsibilities of the Fund Development Director:

Fundraising Strategy Development:

1. Lead the creation and execution of the IJA’s annual and long-term fund development plans.
2. Research, identify, and develop new funding opportunities and partnerships.
3. Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to align fundraising strategies with IJA’s mission, vision, and goals.

Grant Writing and Reporting:

1. Research, write, and submit grant proposals to foundations, corporations and organizations.
2. Manage all aspects of grant reporting, ensuring compliance with grant conditions, budgets and deadlines.
3. Develop proposals to engage potential funders.

Donor Cultivation and Stewardship:

1. Cultivate relationships with current and potential donors, including individual donors, corporations, and foundations.
2. Develop donor engagement strategies to enhance long-term support, including donor stewardship, recognition, and communication.
3. Ensure regular and meaningful communication with donors regarding the impact of their gifts.

Event Planning and Coordination:

1. Organize and manage fundraising events (virtual and in-person) to raise funds and awareness for IJA’s mission.
2. Coordinate logistics, sponsorships, and outreach for events such as donor dinners, benefit concerts, webinars, and community forums.

Budget Management & Reporting:

1. Collaborate with the Executive Director and IJA staff to manage fundraising budgets, track revenue and expenditures.
2. Prepare regular reports on fundraising progress, performance, and outcomes.
3. Raise $300,000+ across new funding sources within the 12-month contract period.

Collaboration & Teamwork:

1. Work with IJA staff, board members, and volunteers to develop fundraising materials, campaigns, and marketing strategies.
2. Assist in creating compelling content for fundraising campaigns, newsletters, and member communications.
3. Stay informed about Indigenous media trends, challenges, and opportunities to better align fundraising strategies with the needs of Indigenous journalists and communities.

What we’re looking for:

Education:

1. A bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, fundraising, or a related field, or equivalent experience is preferred.

Experience:

1. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, or a related field, ideally within the nonprofit sector.
2. Proven track record of securing major gifts, grants, and sponsorships.
3. Experience working with Indigenous communities, or a deep understanding of Indigenous issues and media representation, is highly preferred.
4. Experience with a chapter-based association is preferred.

Skills:

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
2. Strong research and analytical skills to identify funding opportunities.
3. Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
4. High level of initiative, independence, and ability to work collaboratively with staff, board members, and community partners.
5. Knowledge of Indigenous cultures, values, and history, as well as an understanding of the importance of Indigenous-led media.
6. Ability to create, manage and report on budgets for special events and fundraisers.
7. Expert use of G-Suite tools including Google Docs, Sheets and Slides.

Attributes:

1. Passionate about supporting Indigenous journalists, free press and media representation.
2. Culturally sensitive and committed to advancing Indigenous voices in all forms of media.
3. A creative problem-solver with a strategic mindset and strong attention to detail.
4. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders.
5. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects from inception to completion.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume with two professional references including name, title, contact information (email and phone), and reporting relationship, and a cover letter that outlines their qualifications and interest in the position, as well as relevant experience working with Indigenous communities and journalism / media organizations. Send materials to contact@naja.com with the subject line “IJA Fund Development Director – Your Last Name”. Selected candidates will be directed to submit additional materials for review.

We appreciate all applications; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. IJA is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

IJA will continue accepting applications on a rolling basis, until the position is filled.