Director of Development and Communications

Lead fundraising, communications, and donor engagement efforts that drive growth and community impact.

The Director of Development and Communications leads the YMCA of Yonkers' fundraising, external relations, and communications strategy. This role is responsible for generating new revenue, expanding and strengthening a sustainable donor base, and enhancing the organization's visibility and engagement across the community.

Working closely with the President & CEO and Board of Directors, this position oversees fundraising efforts across grants, individual giving, corporate partnerships, and special initiatives while leading the YMCA's communications and public-facing strategy. The Director plays a key leadership role in building relationships, securing funding, and driving sustainable organizational growth.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred, or equivalent experience in fundraising and nonprofit leadership.

Five to seven years of experience in fundraising, development, or communications required.

Demonstrated success securing grants, generating revenue, and meeting or exceeding fundraising targets.

Experience building or significantly expanding a fundraising function, donor base, or development systems preferred.

Experience cultivating and managing relationships with individual donors, institutional funders, and corporate partners.

Experience Working With Boards Or Board Committees Preferred.

Experience with CRM systems and donor database management; experience with Daxko Core or similar platforms preferred.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to represent the organization effectively in external settings.

Experience supervising staff and managing cross-functional initiatives.

Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Essential Functions

Lead the YMCA of Yonkers' fundraising strategy, execution, and revenue development efforts.

Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising plans aligned with organizational priorities and growth objectives.

Lead fundraising initiatives across grants, individual giving, corporate sponsorships, partnerships, and special campaigns.

Cultivate, steward, and expand relationships with donors, funders, corporate partners, and community stakeholders.

Identify and pursue funding opportunities while providing strategic oversight of grant development and funding strategies.

Serve as the primary point of contact for external communications, media relations, branding, and public-facing messaging.

Oversee development of marketing materials, reports, storytelling initiatives, and organizational communications.

Support the Board Development Committee and work closely with Board members on fundraising and donor engagement activities.

Supervise the Housing and Grants Manager and Marketing Associate while fostering a collaborative and accountable team environment.

Represent the YMCA of Yonkers with funders, partners, community leaders, and external stakeholders.

Perform Additional Duties And Responsibilities As Assigned.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Communication & Influence

Fundraising & Relationship Management

Strategic Thinking & Execution

Program & Project Management

Leadership & Team Development

Required Certifications

No specific certifications required.

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred for community engagement and partnership activities.