Donor Engagement Officer

American Friends of Leket Israel (AFOLI) supports the critical work of Leket Israel: Israel’s National Food Bank and largest food rescue organization. AFOLI is seeking a Donor Engagement Officer based in the NYC metropolitan area to expand fundraising in the Northeast.

Location: Combination remote and Teaneck, NJ office, with required regional travel

Reports to: Executive Director

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop a robust donor portfolio: identify, cultivate, steward, and track relationships with mid-level donors; leverage the time of senior staff in cultivating high-potential donors and prospects
• Increase giving among current donors, reengage lapsed donors and source new donors
• In collaboration with the Executive Director, determine goals for number of monthly/weekly donor meetings and set appropriate quarterly targets for securing significant gifts
• Design and execute individualized plans for all assigned donors
• Prepare donor presentations and proposals as necessary; regularly and pro-actively ensure appropriate communication is maintained with donors
• Undertake regular interstate fundraising trips
• Represent the organization at public events; participate in speaking engagements
• Recruit donors and lay leaders to host parlor meetings
• Recruit Board members for both the U.S. and International Boards
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and trainings
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Committed to food justice and assisting Israelis in need of all backgrounds 
• 3-5 years’ experience with demonstrated success in frontline fundraising
• Deep knowledge and understanding of the key players, institutions, philanthropic culture and giving trends in the greater NYC Jewish community in particular and, to a lesser extent, in other key cities in the region; must have significant, demonstrated fundraising success within the NY Jewish community and strong existing connections therein
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically about moving individuals across the spectrum of prospect development, culminating in significant funding requests; ability to independently close five figure+ gifts.
• Excellent communicator with the ability to excite and motivate both prospects and existing donors; ability to establish, develop and maintain long-term relationships with donors, prospects and internal staff
• Self-motivated and self-directed, with the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with exceptional attention to detail, as well as a process and results orientation; the ability to manage multiple priorities. A self-starter with a sense of urgency, a clear set of priorities, a strong work ethic, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Committed to providing excellent customer service and to outstanding follow through
• Knowledgeable about Judaism, Israel and the local (NYC metro area) Jewish community; Hebrew language skills a plus
• Committed to protecting the confidentiality of all records and information about donors and staff and use of discretion when sharing any such information within legal confines
• Advanced written, oral and interpersonal communication skills; exceptional time management
• Superb skill in making persuasive and compelling presentations of goals and objectives in order to secure gifts; excellent public speaking skills
• Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and highly articulate with ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically with a variety of volunteers, donors and staff
• BA required; MA preferred
• Proficient in computer and software knowledge (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.) with experience in donor databases preferred
• Regular regional travel is required including 1-2 international trips per year (COVID-pending)
• Ability to work infrequent weekends and evenings, as needed
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. and be based in the NYC area
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license, insurance and access to a personal vehicle

To apply: Please send a complete résumé and cover letter with the subject line “Donor Engagement Officer” to [email protected].  Please no phone calls.