Managing Director of Advancement

The Managing Director of Advancement (MDA) leads the Advancement Division and the Connect component of the organization's Mission—building the relationships, partnerships, resources, and community engagement that connect people to the San Juan Preservation Trust and advance conservation in the San Juan Islands. The Advancement Division brings together philanthropy, communications, public relations, community engagement, and educational outreach into a cohesive external engagement team. Reporting to the Executive Director and serving on the Executive Leadership Team, the MDA is responsible for developing and leading an integrated strategy to build community, inspire conservation, strengthen partnerships, grow philanthropic support, and elevate SJPT’s public voice. The position serves as a senior ambassador for SJPT, cultivating relationships with members, conservation partners, community leaders, educators, businesses, and other stakeholders who can help advance the organization’s mission. The MDA leads the strategy to broaden, deepen, and diversify SJPT’s financial support and community of engaged supporters. The position oversees Philanthropy and Communications/Outreach staff and integrates fundraising, storytelling, communications, events, volunteer engagement, and partnership development into a unified strategy for building long-term relationships. The MDA also works closely with the Executive Director and Board to support SJPT’s advocacy efforts and ensure that the organization’s community relationships and public engagement strengthen its ability to advance conservation priorities. Full Job Description in the search prospectus at: https://sjpt.org/about-us/employment/ Key Responsibility Areas: COMMUNITY BUILDING, PARTNERSHIPS & PHILANTHROPY (40%) COMMUNICATIONS, OUTREACH, & NARRATIVE STRATEGY (20%) TEAM LEADERSHIP & PROGRAM SUPERVISION (20%) Critical Skills & Qualifications REQUIRED Experience: Minimum 7 - 10 years demonstrated track record of progressively responsible leadership in fundraising, advancement, or nonprofit executive management to include leading multi-disciplinary teams toward shared key performance indicators (KPIs). Fundraising: Deep expertise in all areas of fundraising, including major gifts, capital and comprehensive campaigns, and annual giving combined with a strong, modern understanding of audience marketing, brand strategy, digital conversion, and public relations. Communications: Proficiency in audience segmentation, data-driven decision-making, CRM management (Neon CRM or equivalent), user analytics, and multi-channel campaign ROI tracking. Exceptional and demonstrable writing, public speaking, organization, and public relations skills. Technology Acumen: High proficiency in (and innovative use of) Microsoft O365, CRM environments, workflow/project management platforms, and general technology adoption. Mission and Values: Deep commitment to conservation of the natural world, integrity, diversity, collegiality, strong work ethic, and collaborative team dynamics. DESIRABLE Bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in business, communications, nonprofit management, public relations, or related field preferred. Experience raising funds or marketing in the environmental sector. An understanding, and willingness to adapt to, the unique culture, communities, and geography of the San Juan Islands. Success in identifying and implementing new software programs and databases. Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)