Assistant Director of Development

Department: Mission Advancement 

Supervisor: Managing Director of Mission Advancement 

Status: Full-Time, Exempt 

Hours Schedule: 40 hours/week 

PURPOSE OF POSITION  

The Assistant Director of Development is a senior leader within The Basilica’s Mission Advancement team, responsible for shaping and advancing a culture of philanthropy in support of The Basilica Landmark and The Basilica of Saint Mary. 

SCOPE OF POSITION  

This role is focused on setting development strategy for appeal and fundraising plans, stewardship programs, development communications, and events  with the goal to increase philanthropy, enhance donor stewardship, and deepen community engagement. The Assistant Director will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, guiding long-term fundraising initiatives and donor experience strategies that align with The Basilica’s vision, Catholic identity, and historic role in the city of Minneapolis. 

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR ACTIVITES 

 A. Strategic Leadership & Philanthropic Culture

• Serve as a key strategist within the Mission Advancement team, co-creating and implementing plans that drive sustainable philanthropic growth; accountable for establishing annual giving plans and appeal strategies for multiple designation areas. 

• Partner with the Managing Director of Mission Advancement, Gift Officers, Director of Marketing and Communications and other leaders to align fundraising strategy with organizational goals, campaign priorities, and long-term vision. 

• Contribute to leadership-level decision-making and cross-functional planning related to donor experience, communications, and mission advancement. 

• Manage the Development Communications and Events Coordinator and provide strategic oversight for fundraising events and communications. 

 B. Stewardship & Donor Experience Strategy

• Design and lead a robust, mission-driven stewardship strategy that strengthens donor relationships and reflects the values of gratitude, transparency, and impact. 

• Develop multi-tiered stewardship frameworks and recognition programs for various giving levels, including legacy donors, campaign supporters, and long-term benefactors. 

• Integrate donor storytelling, personalized outreach, and faith-informed gratitude practices into all touchpoints with supporters. 

 C. Internal & External Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Mission Advancement team to ensure successful delivery and implementation of appeals, acknowledgements, and all other prospect and donor activities. 

• Collaborate with the Mission Advancement team to ensure data, reporting and technology adequately supports fundraising, engagement and analysis needs. 

• Build strong partnerships with clergy, ministry leaders, and internal teams to integrate philanthropy into the broader life of the parish and The Basilica Landmark. 

• Serve as a thought leader and advocate for a culture of giving within The Basilica community. 

 D. Brand Alignment & Impact Messaging

• Collaborate with communications staff to ensure consistent, compelling messaging around The Basilica Landmark, The Basilica of Saint Mary and St Vincent de Paul missions and fundraising messaging. 

• Guide the development of key donor-facing materials and ensure alignment with The Basilica’s Catholic brand, identity and architectural heritage and mission. 

E. Organizational Presence & Representation

• Represent The Basilica Landmark and The Basilica of Saint Mary at key events, donor gatherings, and community partnerships to elevate visibility and philanthropic support. 

• Participate in Basilica-wide initiatives and ensure that fundraising strategies reflect and support the broader spiritual and community mission of The Basilica of Saint Mary. 

• Partner with volunteers and committees to build a culture of philanthropy within The Basilica community. 

Other Duties 

• Serve on internal committees and task forces as needed to advance institutional priorities. 

• Support an inclusive, mission-driven workplace that reflects the values and traditions of the Catholic Church. 

• Other strategic responsibilities as assigned by the Managing Director of Mission Advancement 

Exempt: Be ready to work and complete all assigned responsibilities and accept additional responsibilities identified (as needed) by your supervisor. 

Compensation and Benefits  

The salary range for this position is $72,000 - $76,000 annually. All full-time employees of The Basilica of Saint Mary receive access to the following benefits: medical/dental/vision insurance, FSA & HSA plans, minimum 3 weeks of paid time off, sick leave, paid holidays, floating holidays, parental leave, 403b, 403b matching up to 3%, life insurance, employee assistance program (EAP), short-term disability, long-term disability, and other supplemental insurance options.    

Designation of Essential Functions 

Employment in and by the Church is substantially different from secular employment. Church employees/volunteers must conduct themselves in a manner which is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. This position does not require that the employee/volunteer be a Catholic. However, as a parish community rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church, employees/volunteers are expected to be knowledgeable of core tenets and respectful of the mission, purpose, and teachings of the Catholic faith. 

HOW TO APPLY 

Please send your resume and cover letter to Taylor Liles, tliles@mary.org. Cover letters are highly encouraged but not required for consideration. 

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced training or certification in fundraising (e.g., CFRE) preferred. 

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit development, with a focus on strategic planning, annual giving, stewardship, and donor relations. 

• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement donor-centered strategies that lead to sustained philanthropic growth. 

• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with a strong ability to influence, inspire, and engage diverse audiences. 

• Experience working with senior leadership, boards, and faith-based communities. 

• Strong financial literacy and the ability to analyze trends and align resources with mission impact. 

• Familiarity with CRM systems and donor engagement platforms (Raiser’s Edge preferred). 

Physical Demands 

• Work 40 hours per week. 

• Must be able to stand for extended periods. 

• Able to walk up and down stairs. 

Mental Demands 

• Ability to think strategically. 

• Ability to be self-motivated and accomplish tasks within appropriate deadlines with minimal supervision. 

• Ability to work collaboratively within the Mission Advancement team and across the organization as well as with volunteers and other external partners. 

• Possesses good people and listening skills. 

• Ability to work as an integral part of a team. 

• Respects and values a diverse culture. 

• Has a positive and helpful attitude, especially in times of high intensity. 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality. 

HOW TO APPLY 

Please send your resume and cover letter to Taylor Liles, tliles@mary.org. Cover letters are highly encouraged but not required for consideration.