Location and Job Title:

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Gordon JCC
801 Percy Warner Blvd
Nashville, TN 37205

Principal Responsibilities:

The Gordon JCC is seeking a passionate and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs and community impact. This role is central to advancing our mission by building meaningful donor relationships, securing philanthropic support, and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy across individual giving, events, grants, and sponsorships. As a key partner to the Executive Director, Board, and leadership team, the Development Director will not only meet annual fundraising goals but also cultivate a culture of philanthropy that engages donors, members, and the broader community.

JOB TYPE: Full-time

BENEFITS:

• Health, Vision and Dental coverage available
• Life Insurance 403(b) with match
• Health Savings Account
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• Employee Program Discounts/ Professional Development Opportunities

Minimum Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field (preferred, not mandatory).
• 5+ years of progressive fundraising/development experience in a nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success in individual giving, major gifts, grants, and event-based fundraising.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with grant writing experience preferred. Excellent relationship-builder with the ability to engage donors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with donor management systems (CRM).
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable balancing multiple projects.
• A passion for working as part of a broader team of professionals dedicated to enhancing Jewish community life in Nashville.
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, Jewish community and culture.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stay alert while sitting, standing, or walking for various lengths of time.
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:

• Design and manage a multi-channel annual fundraising plan with clear goals.
• Partner with Finance to track and report progress against fundraising benchmarks.
• Partner with the Executive Director on major donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Manage relationships with mid-level and smaller donors, ensuring strong engagement and retention. Lead the annual appeal and donor recognition initiatives.
• Plan donor appreciation events and maintain accurate donor records.
• Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals to foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Manage grants calendar, ensuring timely applications and reports.
• Lead planning and execution of Big Night Out gala and other key fundraising events.
• Secure sponsors and donors while collaborating with program and marketing teams to maximize impact.
• Partner with staff to integrate fundraising opportunities into additional events.
• Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals by source (individuals, grants, events, sponsorships).
• Expand and retain the donor base year over year.
• Deliver high-quality, well-attended fundraising events.
• Submit grant applications and reports in a timely manner.
• Establish strong, positive relationships with members and donors

The Gordon JCC is more than a community center -- it's a place where people come together to connect, grow, and celebrate. As Development Director, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring our mission thrives, our programs expand, and our members feel supported in a vibrant, inclusive community.

Salary:

$75,000 - $85,000

Agency Information:

The Gordon Jewish Community Center (Gordon JCC) is at the center of Jewish life in Nashville, providing recreational, educational, social and cultural programs and services to over 1,700 member families. Located on a beautiful 52-acre campus in west Nashville, it is a place where non-Jews are welcome to join, play and learn side by side with their Jewish neighbors. Camp Davis, established in 1930s, provides a day camp experience for hundreds of school-age children each summer.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to Interim Executive Director Dara Freiberg at dara@nashvillejcc.org.