Director of Planned Giving
American Farmland Trust
District of Columbia

Job Description

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.5 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres, and helped thousands of farm families make a go of it (primarily through programs that increase farm viability and/or enhance farmland access). Long a pioneering leader, AFT is now riding a new wave of growth, driven by agriculture's most pressing needs and opportunities.

We believe diversity drives innovation. We are inclusive. We embrace differences. We recognize and respect the fundamental value and dignity of all our employees. We celebrate the unique traditions, heritages, and experiences our employees bring to the workplace. We are committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive culture that promotes and values diversity, and where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, expression or identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, American Farmland Trust complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we have facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

American Farmland Trust is recruiting for an experienced fundraising professional to fill the new position of Director of Planned Giving. The successful candidate will direct American Farmland Trust's fundraising efforts in the channel, leading all facets of planned giving strategy and execution. Working independently, and with AFT's in-house Research Coordinator, Development Coordinator, Individual Giving team, this individual will identify and qualify new prospects, solicit and steward existing prospects, and design and execute successful planned giving strategies – working with other AFT staff when appropriate (AFT's President, Director of Farm Legacy [gifts of land], program staff, etc.) – and be responsible for achieving specific fundraising targets.

This position is a part-time position, targeting 50%-75% FTE. This position works closely with the Development team and reports to the VP of Development.

What You'll Be Working On

As an integral member of the Development Team, the Director of Planned Giving is responsible for:

  • Building and managing a portfolio of planned giving prospects
    • AFT has a small portfolio of existing planned giving donors and prospects, and a database and pipeline ideal for expanding work in this channel.
  • Working with Development Coordinators (and other Communications staff) to execute planned giving marketing strategies.
  • Employing a robust travel and meeting schedule with donors and prospects.
  • Providing rapid response to opportunities to engage donors and prospects in AFT's issues following relevant news articles, AFT successes, and other key moments that arise through the year.
  • Utilizing existing tools (Crescendo, Raiser's Edge), effectively marketing and responding to individual donors/prospects inquiries through written correspondence, telephone contact, personal contact and e-mail, assuring the donors/prospects that their needs are processed immediately upon request.
  • Preparing written materials, including reports, cultivations, stewardship pieces, and direct mail solicitations for individual supporters.
  • Working with development staff to research and review top donor prospects through discovery calls and visits and adds to the Individual Giving prospect pipeline and moves management program.
  • Completing other duties as assigned.

The Director of Planned Giving has superior verbal and written communication skills, the ability to speak intelligently and passionately to external stakeholders about American Farmland Trust's mission and impactful programs around the country, and possesses:

  • Experience managing large or complex projects, including project budgeting and planning.
  • Experience successfully managing internal stakeholders and relationships.
  • Proven ability to collaborate across divisions to implement processes and achieve results. Track record of building and maintaining productive relationships with multiple stakeholders.
  • Proven ability to continually develop skills related to use of rapidly changing technology and communications best practices.
  • Willingness to travel extensively and whenever necessary.
  • Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic work environment.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Minimum 5-7 years' experience in fundraising, with demonstrable frontline fundraising skills and a background expertise in complicated planned giving vehicles.

Why you should apply

  • Be a part of a purpose-driven, committed, knowledgeable, high-performing, experienced and fun team
  • A diverse and inclusive work environment
  • A cause and mission you can be proud of
  • Competitive compensation & Benefits
  • Remote work opportunities
  • Flexible scheduling

Ready to apply? If this job sounds like a fit for you, then click on the 'apply' button below.

Apply Here

PI152800857

Salary Range:

$65,000.00 - $85,000.00

Employment/Position Type:

Full Time
Date Posted : 11/05/2021