Director of Development

Reporting to the Executive Director of Catholic Rural Life, the Director of Development is responsible for providing leadership and initiative in raising $1,000,000-$2,000,000 annually in financial resources to support CRL’s programming. The Director is also responsible for leading the implementation of a successful capital campaign.

Primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Significantly increase the number of CRL major donors, gifts >$1,000.
• Significantly increase CRL’s donor base and memberships.
• Prepare annual development plan.
• Manage a Development Coordinator that will support both the Executive Director and the Development Director.
• Lead CRL’s Development Committee.
• Oversee research and writing of successful grant proposals.
• Travel regularly (25%-30%) and nationally to meetings with major donors and funders and attend relevant events.

A successful candidate for this position will have the following:

• Demonstrated success at closing major donor gifts and securing grants ≥ $50,000.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing capital campaigns.
• At least 10 years of successful fundraising experience.
• Demonstrated experience and success working with board members.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in donor database management software; Microsoft Office; Google Works.
• Willingness to travel 25%-30%.
• Undergraduate or higher degree in business or relevant field of study.

The salary for this position will depend upon experience. Catholic Rural Life offers a competitive benefits package that includes dental and medical coverage, a retirement plan and flexible personal time off.  To apply, please send a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and experience to Seth Forster at seth@catholicrurallife.org. CRL will accept applications until October 15, 2026 or until the position is filled.