About the Organization
A leading U.S.-based nonprofit is the largest fundraiser for an international education network that has, for more than 140 years, provided educational access and job training in under-resourced communities across 40 countries, including Israel, Ukraine, Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Its schools and vocational programs support thousands of educators delivering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) instruction while fostering Jewish cultural and communal engagement.
Scope of Work
The organization is seeking a dynamic, experienced professional with strong fundraising and management skills to serve as the Midwest Regional Director of Development based in Cleveland. The successful candidate will have a deep commitment to the organization’s mission and will design and implement strategies to engage individuals, foundations, and federations across the Midwest.
This role requires familiarity with the Jewish philanthropic landscape in Cleveland and neighboring communities in multiple Midwest states. The Director will actively cultivate relationships in at least five key regional communities.
The position involves close collaboration with volunteers and requires the ability to independently manage initiatives and meet annual fundraising goals. The Director will play a pivotal role in building relationships, engaging donors and leaders, and contributing to the organization’s national development team.
Essential Responsibilities
- Identify, cultivate, and solicit major and planned giving donors and prospects
- Create cultivation and solicitation strategies in partnership with national leadership to strengthen Midwest giving
- Match donor, foundation, and federation interests with program priorities for designated funding
- Convene and guide a regional board; coordinate meetings and encourage participation in national and local events
- Serve as primary liaison to the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and other local/regional partners
- Establish and engage a younger leadership network (ages 35–50) across varied communities and networks in the area
- Expand the organization’s presence within Cleveland’s Jewish community and surrounding states through networking and outreach
- Manage the regional budget; evaluate events and initiatives for impact and cost-effectiveness in collaboration with lay leaders
- Oversee written communications for events, newsletters, and social media presence
- Carry out special projects as assigned
Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree
Experience Required: 5–7 years in fundraising or related roles; proven record in major donor fundraising; familiarity with planned giving and volunteer engagement preferred. Strong knowledge of the Jewish philanthropic and communal environment is essential.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and TEAMS; ability to learn and utilize CRM systems is required
Additional Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
- Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills
- Creative, strategic thinking with adaptability and flexibility
- High energy, detail-oriented, and motivated
- Well-organized and capable of working independently in a fast-paced setting
