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Now hiring: Development Director

The Development Director plays a central role in putting us on a sustainable growth path.

About The Richmonder

The Richmonder elevates the community conversation in metro Richmond through stories that inform and inspire. Founded in September 2024, we deliver independent, high-quality news. Our growing news organization has built some momentum with a dedicated base of readers and supporters. As we expand our team and transition into a new downtown office, we remain committed to empowering Richmond residents with information.

Role Summary

The Development Director plays a central role in putting us on a sustainable growth path. The ideal candidate will bring solid fundraising experience – but more importantly, this person believes in the power of local news and how it can elevate the conversation in our community. This position is focused on building and sustaining our financial foundation by attracting donors, cultivating sponsors, and creating targeted outreach campaigns. As a key member of our team, the Development Director helps secure the resources necessary to pursue our mission.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Lead Fundraising Strategy
  • Own the overall objectives and strategy to achieve our annual budget and support organizational growth goals
  • Identify and engage large donors across institutions, businesses, and individuals – building lasting relationships
  • Actively seek out grant opportunities and develop strategic partnerships to diversify revenue streams
  1. Develop Sponsor Relationships
  • Secure sponsors for The Richmonder’s two signature annual events
  • Cultivate sponsors for the Richmonder newsletter 
  • Collaborate with internal team to align sponsorship opportunities with event objectives, content and marketing efforts
  • Ensure newsletter sponsorships meet company standards
  1. Conduct Outreach Initiatives
  • Develop and execute targeted outreach campaigns, which may include direct mail, ensuring consistent messaging and follow-ups
  • Identify opportunities for converting subscribers into paid supporters through data-driven insights and tailored engagement strategies.
  1. Manage Donor Operations
  • Establish effective donor management practices, initially handling detailed tasks until administrative support is in place
  • Maintain/Oversee the donor database, ensuring accurate record keeping
  • Issue receipts, acknowledgments, and year-end tax documents promptly

Requirements

  • Multiple years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, or a related field
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a positive, constructive manner
  • Genuine enthusiasm for community journalism and The Richmonder’s mission
  • Committed to supporting the editorial direction for news and story development

Work Schedule and Benefits

  • Start Date: As soon as available
  • Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with occasional night or weekend work for events
  • Location: Must live in or relocate to the Richmond, Virginia metro area. The Richmonder has a downtown office but daily attendance is not mandatory.
  • Reports to: Executive Director or equivalent (currently Founding Editor)
  • Compensation: $90,000 annual salary
  • Benefits:
    • Group health and dental insurance
    • 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% employer match (once eligible)
    • Paid holidays, including a break from December 25 through January 1
    • Vacation time at manager discretion, with a minimum of 10 days encouraged annually
    • Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel at the current IRS rate

To apply

Please send a cover letter and résumé to Michael Phillips, mphillips@richmonder.org.