Development Director at University of Michigan Hillel

As the Development Director at University of Michigan Hillel, your main responsibilities include designing and executing a comprehensive annual development plan, overseeing fundraising campaigns, cultivating relationships with mid-level and major donors, and collaborating with the senior leadership team to ensure the organization’s fiscal health.

Ideal candidates for the Development Director role at University of Michigan Hillel should possess a successful track record in managing fundraising campaigns, exceptional communication skills, proficiency in data management tools like Little Green Light, and a passion for the Jewish community, alongside familiarity with current trends in philanthropy.

The Development Director will implement multi-pronged fundraising strategies that include direct mail campaigns, digital appeals, major gift solicitations, and grassroots fundraising events. The focus will be on establishing relationships with potential and existing donors to maintain robust financial support for the organization’s initiatives.

The Development Director at University of Michigan Hillel should actively participate in local Jewish community events, forge partnerships with organizations, and connect with alumni. A thoughtful strategy for in-person fundraising and friendraising events will help build these vital community relationships.

University of Michigan Hillel offers various professional development opportunities for the Development Director, including mentoring, skill-building workshops, and chances for peer engagement, ensuring that the director continues to grow in their leadership role within the organization.

Share specific examples of fundraising campaigns you've managed, focusing on your strategic approach, the objectives you set, and the outcomes achieved. Highlight any innovative strategies you implemented to engage donors effectively.

Explain your methods for building relationships, such as personal outreach, regular communication, and personalized engagement strategies. Emphasize the importance of understanding donor motivations and aligning those with the organization's mission.

Discuss your leadership style, focusing on collaboration and mentoring. Provide examples of how you have motivated a team to meet fundraising goals, managed performance, and fostered a positive work environment.

Share key performance indicators you use to evaluate fundraising success, such as donor retention rates, campaign ROI, or the number and value of major gifts secured. Your answer should also convey a commitment to continuous improvement.

Describe the approaches you implement for grassroots fundraising, such as community engagement events, social media campaigns, or direct appeals. Highlight any specific examples that have led to successful outcomes.

Discuss the importance of social media, peer-to-peer engagement, and events that resonate with a younger audience. Provide examples of how you have successfully connected with this demographic in previous roles.

Emphasize the critical role that community engagement plays in building trust and relationships, which in turn can lead to more successful fundraising outcomes. Share how you've fostered these connections in past experiences.

Articulate your personal connection to the mission of University of Michigan Hillel and how your professional background makes you a great fit. Showcase your commitment to enhancing Jewish life and culture through impactful fundraising.

Share a specific incident where a fundraising effort didn't go as planned. Discuss what you learned from the experience, how you adjusted your strategy, and any positive outcomes that emerged from the challenge.

Highlight your familiarity with CRM systems like Little Green Light or similar tools. Discuss how you have effectively used donor data to inform fundraising strategies and enhance donor engagement.