The Organization
Since its inception, The Forum has been dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs by providing the resources, networks, and financial support necessary to succeed. With a rich community of entrepreneurs at varying stages of their business journeys, The Forum has become a cornerstone of growth and impact, helping to foster sustainable economic contributions driven by women-led businesses.
The Forum is now preparing for a significant phase of growth, including planning for new fundraising initiatives and campaigns. The Development Manager will play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives and supporting long-term financial sustainability.
The Position
Reporting to the VP Sponsorship & Development and working closely with them and the CEO, this role is critical in supporting the creation and execution of strategies that enhance donor engagement, expand revenue streams, and support future fundraising campaigns.
This individual will champion initiatives to establish The Forum as a leading organization in philanthropy and donor relations. Through strategic thinking, operational excellence, and innovative approaches, the Development Manager will play a part in laying the groundwork for long-term financial growth while aligning fundraising activities with organizational objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Excellence and Impact
- Cultivate a diverse base of engaged donors, sponsors, and partners through innovative programs that attract funds for The Forum's annual operations and programs.
- Maintain sustainable support by fostering meaningful relationships and building communities of engagement through effective cultivation and stewardship.
- Together with the VP of Development, execute on a comprehensive fundraising plan, including major gifts, monthly and annual giving, planned giving, grant writing, and special events.
- Collaborate with and motivate a team of Board members, staff, volunteers, and committees (e.g., Fundraising / Activation Committees) to advocate for The Forum and implement the annual development plan effectively.
- Participate in setting fundraising goals, monitor progress, and report on outcomes against key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Support the planning and execution of future fundraising campaigns to fuel The Forum’s continued growth and success.
- Implement strategies to re-engage lapsed donors, optimize donor retention, and strengthen long-term donor relationships.
Leadership and Strategic Contributions
Collaborate with leadership to set strategy and policy for fundraising efforts, aligning with The Forum's strategic priorities.Contribute to the development and refinement of long-term fundraising strategies in partnership with internal and external stakeholders, fostering a fully engaged organization to deliver increased revenue.Actively participate in business, civic, and community organizations to expand The Forum’s network, foster relationships, and grow its reach.Inspire excellence, innovation, and impact across all fundraising initiatives, ensuring alignment with The Forum’s mission and goals.Operational and Tactical Execution
Manage and maintain a prospect management system to effectively track and oversee all prospects.Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to refine donor cultivation funnel strategies, utilizing moves management to optimize giving levels, increase donations, and build lifelong supporters.Customize and implement full-cycle development plans, guided by clear targets, budgets, and reporting requirements.Coordinate donor communications, including emails, campaigns, and recognition systems, to enhance engagement and retention.Support leadership in executing larger donation asks and provide direct solicitation for smaller gifts.Prepare business plans and establish fundraising budgets aligned with The Forum’s strategic objectives.Location
This position will be located in the GTA and will be work from home.
The Candidate
You are purpose-driven, inspired by the opportunity to create meaningful connections and energized by implementing impactful fundraising programs that deliver measurable results. With a proven ability to manage and execute comprehensive fund development initiatives, you excel at engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering sustainable donor relationships. You bring a blend of strategic vision with deep implementation skills as well as an entrepreneurial spirit, thriving in dynamic environments while maintaining a commitment to equity, inclusion, and ethical practices. Drawing on your expertise in fundraising, donor cultivation, and program execution, you are a natural collaborator who drives alignment and ensures success through thoughtful planning and execution. You demonstrate :
Professional Experience
Proven success in managing comprehensive fundraising programs, including major gifts, annual and planned giving, grant writing, events, and donor retention strategies.Proven success securing funding at the $10,000 level and above (not required, but preferred)Expertise in building donor programs, engaging diverse stakeholders, and driving organizational goals.Strong knowledge of charitable regulations and the non-profit sector, with experience in membership-based or educational organizations as a plus.Significant experience in progressive fundraising roles, supported by a post-secondary degree in a related field.Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE / ACFRE) designation, with experience in digital fundraising platforms highly valued.Key Skills and Attributes
Exceptional planning, organizational, and analytical skills, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engaging diverse stakeholders diplomatically.Adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit, thriving in dynamic environments while demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.Proficiency in digital fundraising campaigns and donor engagement tools.Adherence to the AFP Code of Ethics and Donor Bill of Rights.Personal Characteristics
A natural ability to build relationships, inspiring trust and fostering meaningful connections.Strategic, goal-oriented, and entrepreneurial qualities, balancing short-term execution with long-term planning.Resilience and solutions-focused thinking, maintaining a positive attitude and professionalism.Empathy and collaboration, with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and empowering women entrepreneurs.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the initiative to work independently.Compensation and Benefits
The compensation range for this position includes a base of $80k - $90k annually, with the opportunity for a performance-based bonus. This range is based on market benchmarks and may vary depending on the candidate’s relevant knowledge, skills, and experience.
Additional benefits include a flexible working environment and a comprehensive benefits package.