Development Officer

The Thomas Merton Family Center, a program of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, is seeking a full-time Development Officer. Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy and working closely with the Director of the Thomas Merton Family Center, this benefits eligible position is responsible for promoting the Thomas Merton Family Center and Catholic Charities throughout the community while developing and implementing fundraising strategies that ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

The Development Officer will cultivate relationships with donors, corporations, foundations, civic organizations, religious organizations, and community partners. This individual will work closely with the Thomas Merton Family Center Advisory Council and the Catholic Charities Philanthropy Team to expand the donor base and support fundraising initiatives. Occasional evening and weekend work is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with current donors while cultivating new individual and corporate supporters.
• Manage annual giving efforts, stewardship strategies, major gifts, planned giving, and special fundraising campaigns.
• Sell sponsorships and tickets for fundraising events while assisting with event planning and management.
• Support annual appeals and other fundraising initiatives throughout the year.
• Represent the Thomas Merton Family Center at community events, conferences, and fundraisers.
• Research, write, submit, and report on private and government grant opportunities.
• Conduct market research to identify fundraising and development trends.
• Lead tours for prospective donors and community organizations.
• Maintain accurate donor records using Raiser's Edge.
• Participate in weekly Philanthropy Team meetings and cross-functional training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Nonprofit fundraising experience preferred or comparable sales and business development experience.
• Experience cultivating relationships with corporate, civic, religious, or community organizations.
• Database management experience.
• Experience building partnerships with external stakeholders.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills.
• Customer focused with strong relationship building abilities.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office 365, Raiser's Edge, and other technology platforms.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information.
• Committed to the mission of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County and the Thomas Merton Family Center.
• Understanding and appreciation for the needs of underserved populations.

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter and résumé to:

Nicholas Martinez
Director, Thomas Merton Family Center
[email protected]

Chrissa Ventrelle
Director of Philanthropy
[email protected]

Catholic Charities of Fairfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.