Associate Director of Development

About the role

Essie Justice Group is seeking an impact‑driven Associate Director of Development to lead its philanthropic operations. This senior position will shape donor strategy, manage relationships, and support the organization’s mission to dismantle mass incarceration and build a Black feminist future.

Key responsibilities

• Design and manage donor programs, from identification to cultivation and stewardship.
• Partner with interim co‑executive directors to set fundraising benchmarks and goals.
• Oversee development infrastructure, including CRM configuration and stakeholder engagement processes.
• Research and recommend new funding opportunities aligned with strategic priorities.
• Craft compelling narratives for grant applications, reports, and donor communications.
• Lead prospect research and relationship‑management workflows.
• Develop and execute multi‑channel engagement strategies such as phone outreach, email, personal visits, and small‑group events.

Required profile

• Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising and donor relations.
• Strategic thinker comfortable balancing high‑level planning with detailed execution.
• Strong written communication skills for narrative development.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission of decarceration and Black feminist liberation.

Required skills

• CRM systems (configuration and management)