Job Description

Organization Profile:

Founded in 2007, Stupid Cancer aims to empower the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer community. Through innovative resources, we help the AYA cancer community navigate the complexities of treatment and survivorship while fighting isolation and advocating for a life rich with meaning and connection. In short, we make cancer suck less for the 89,500 15 – 39-year-olds who are diagnosed with cancer each year and the two million-plus AYA cancer survivors in the United States.

Position Overview:

We’re looking for a dynamic, results-driven Director of Development to join our team and help us fuel our mission of empowering AYAs battling cancer. If you thrive in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment and are passionate about making an impact, then keep reading!

The Director of Development is a key leadership position responsible for creating and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that drives revenue growth for the organization. The role will focus on building out individual giving campaigns, enhancing corporate and foundation partnerships, and managing a Development Coordinator. This role is 60% strategic leadership and relationship management and 40% campaign and team execution. The Director of Development will work closely with the CEO and Board to ensure that fundraising goals are met, develop and implement new fundraising initiatives, increase donor engagement, and elevate our impact. The Director of Development will also partner with the CEO to craft a comprehensive and ambitious development plan aimed at increasing revenue from $1.2 million to $3 million within the next three years.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and execute a multi-faceted development strategy to increase revenue and diversify funding streams (from $1.2 million to $3 million within the next three years), focusing on individual giving and corporate partnerships.
• Build upon our newly launched major supporters’ program of donors and fundraisers, working closely with high-net-worth individuals to cultivate transformative donations.
• Set clear fundraising goals and benchmarks for individual, corporate, and major donor programs, in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Work with the CEO to identify new prospects and cultivate relationships with high-net-worth individuals and potential corporate partners.
• Plan and manage fundraising campaigns, events, and special initiatives to engage new and current donors.
• Provide strategic leadership for the organization’s fundraising efforts, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and long-term sustainability goals.

Individual Giving

• Build out and manage an effective individual giving program, including annual giving, mid-level donor programs, and major donor cultivation.
• Develop and execute a robust donor stewardship program, ensuring donors are kept apprised of and inspired to renew and increase their giving.
• Develop targeted campaigns, including direct mail, online fundraising, and social media efforts.
• Regularly assess and adjust fundraising strategies based on donor feedback and evolving trends.

Corporate & Foundation Partnerships

• Oversee grant opportunities from foundations, developing proposals that align with Stupid Cancer’s goals and mission and ensuring strong grant management once awarded.
• Identify, cultivate, and secure corporate sponsorships and partnerships, fostering strong relationships with corporations aligned with the organization’s mission.
• Develop and manage corporate giving programs, including cause marketing, employee matching gifts, and corporate event sponsorships.
• Leverage corporate relationships to increase financial support and build brand recognition for the organization.

Other Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and strategic guidance to the Development Coordinator and foster a collaborative and positive team environment.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing donors while stewarding new donors through personalized acknowledgment and engagement strategies.
• Collaborate with communications and marketing teams to develop compelling fundraising materials and donor communications.
• CancerCon : Our signature event, this weekend-long conference, is the largest gathering of the AYA cancer community on the planet. Provide leadership with internal and external stakeholders, oversee fundraising efforts, securing partnerships and manage exhibitor relationships.

Must-Have Qualifications

• 8-10 years of development experience, with a proven track record of raising revenue in a nonprofit environment, preferably in a leadership position
• Demonstrated ability to close major gifts and lead successful fundraising campaigns
• A passion for our mission and a desire to have a big impact on the AYA community
• A strong entrepreneurial spirit and creative approach to fundraising.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-efficiency environment, juggling multiple priorities and working independently.
• Experience in major gift fundraising, corporate partnerships, donor stewardship, and creating sustainable income streams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Experience with CRM platforms

To Be a Successful Member of the Team

• Work collaboratively with all departments
• Occasionally work outside of normal working hours to engage with our community and mission
• Have a passion for our mission and a strong desire to have an impact by working with a dynamic organization
• Be an innovative and creative thinker
• Be a risk-taker
• Be inspirational
• Have a high level of personal and professional integrity
• Have a strong work ethic and require minimal direction
• Work well independently as well as part of a team
• Thrive in a fast-paced and fun environment

Location: New York City (Hybrid, 2 days in-office)

Salary: $100,000 - $115,000 (Exempt Full-Time)

Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Life and Disability Insurance, a 401K Plan, generous PTO and sick time and more. 

Ready to Join Us?

To apply, send your cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to HR@stupidcancer.org. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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