Director of Development

OpenPlans is a ‘dot-org’, a non-profit that uses the Web to help cities work better. We write open source software that liberates data and enables civic participation, and we advocate for sensible transportation policy through our Livable Streets Education Program (streetseducation.org) and popular advocacy journalism sites like Streetsblog.org and Streetfilms.org. Our 55-person staff includes software developers, journalists, urban planning enthusiasts, and open government advocates.

Historically, OpenPlans has been funded principally by our founder and by a range of fee-based business activities. We are now seeking an experienced Director of Development to help us diversify our funding base to include philanthropic organizations. This position will be responsible for developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy, cultivating major donors, writing and tracking grants, and coordinating fundraising activities and campaigns.

This is a tremendous opportunity for someone with a background in ‘venture philanthropy,’ the combination of tech start-up environment with mission-driven projects.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for OpenPlans.
  • Manage the development and submission of funding requests. Project manage funding-cycle timelines, and ensure the successful conveyance of relevant deliverables (for example, regular reporting).
  • Cultivate individual and foundation donors, and conduct prospect research.
  • Working with our Controller, track revenues and analyze effectiveness of different fundraising approaches.
  • Develop a system for tracking program expenditures against funding sources, to ensure timely, consistent reporting.
  • Write grant applications for both governmental and foundation grants, and research new grant opportunities.
  • Work with program staff to ensure that grant objectives are being met.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of ten years experience working in fundraising and/or business development, with the majority of that experience in the non-profit sector.
  • Demonstrated success record in all key aspects of fundraising, including major gifts and foundation relations.
  • Extensive knowledge and professional contacts in philanthropic sector, including major donors and foundations. New York City-specific experience is particularly relevant.
  • Experience managing development initiatives from the ground-up. This position will be responsible for both the big-picture vision and the details of OpenPlans’ fundraising efforts.
  • Fluid communication, whether written, electronic, or in person.
  • A knack for building actionable relationships with a variety of personalities and experts.
  • A passion for progressive transportation policy and open government.
  • The ability to learn and adapt quickly, and comfort talking about technology and/or urban planning issues.

We Offer

OpenPlans invests in the best people and treats them right. We offer competitive salaries and great benefits (all the basics, plus five weeks of vacation and free lunch). We occupy a gorgeous office in SoHo, and we have a bright future. You will be surrounded by friendly, smart, passionate people, and your work will contribute to the empowerment of civil society.

To Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to jobs@openplans.org. Include the exact job title in the subject line of your email. Let us know why you are interested in working at OpenPlans.