Development and Communications Specialist

Summary This position plays a crucial role in advancing the Lower Merion Library System's mission by driving development initiatives and effectively communicating the library's programs, services, and impact to diverse stakeholders.
The position will work closely with the Director of Libraries, library staff and boards and is responsible for fundraising, donor relations, marketing, and managing various communication channels.
This position contributes to the growth and success of Lower Merion Library System while building on our existing community engagement practices.
Works under general supervision of the Director of Libraries.
Duties Development: Plans, implements, and manages comprehensive fundraising strategies to support the library's operational needs and special projects.
Identifies and cultivates relationships with potential donors, sponsors, and funding organizations.
Prepares grant proposals and manages the grant application process, e.
g.
Library Services and Technology Act (TSTA), Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC), foundations, and corporations.
Coordinates fundraising events across six libraries and the Lower Merion Library Foundation, including campaigns and initiatives to engage the community and maximize donor participation.
Maintains accurate donor records, tracks contributions, and provides regular reports on fundraising progress to the library management.
Advises and trains member libraries on best practices in fundraising and donor development.
Works collaboratively with member libraries, the Lower Merion Library Foundation, Board of Trustees, community volunteers, library employees, Lower Merion Township employees, and local elected officials to accomplish goals.
Oversees use of donor database, direct mail services, online donations services and other necessary development resources.
Donor Relations: Builds and maintains strong relationships with individual and corporate donors, ensuring timely and personalized communication.
Develops and implements stewardship programs to recognize and appreciate donors, ensuring a positive donor experience.
Collaborates with library staff and board members to involve them in cultivation and stewardship activities.
Communications and Marketing: Develops and executes a comprehensive communications strategy to promote library programs, services, and events to the public.
Creates compelling content, including press releases, newsletters, website updates, social media posts, and promotional materials.
Coordinates the library's online presence, including the website, social media platforms, and other digital communication channels.
Creates and monitors communications plan and calendar.
Monitors and analyzes communication metrics to assess the effectiveness of communication efforts and make data-driven improvements.
Provides advocacy support for library issues.
Represents or speaks for the library at community events and organizations when designated.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree, in public relations, business or related field.
Minimum of five (5) years development experience, including participation in campaign or major gift fund-raising program, preferably within an organization with multiple locations.
Direct cultivation and solicitation experience preferred.
Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in fundraising, development, or donor relations, preferably in a nonprofit or educational institution.
Experience in fundraising for libraries preferred.
Valid Class C driver’s license.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to create engaging and appropriate content for various platforms and audiences.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Knowledge of fundraising techniques, grant writing, and donor management software.
Proficiency in utilizing digital platforms and social media for marketing and communication purposes.
Demonstrates confidentiality, good judgment, diplomacy and tact in working with others.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Passion for libraries, literacy, and a commitment to promoting access to information and knowledge.
Knowledge of Lower Merion Township and its organizations and businesses desired.
Good working knowledge of charitable giving laws and regulations.
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends to attend fundraising events or community engagement activities.
Ability to be self-motivated and work both independently and in a team environment.
Ability to interest and motivate others.
Ability to embrace change and demonstrate innovation in solving problems.
Physical Requirements Ability to sit for a minimum of 4 up to 8 hours and stand and/or walk for a minimum of 2 up to 4 hours per workday.
Ability to bend/stoop, squat, kneel, reach above shoulder level, lift, push and pull up to 35% of the workday for general office procedures.
Ability to lift and carry up to 34 pounds of equipment up to 15% of the workday, and ability to lift and carry up to 24 pounds up to 10% of the workday.
Ability to view a computer monitor up to 80% of the workday.
Ability to repetitively grasp, lift, and carry materials and objects.
Ability to repetitively perform fine motor manipulations including typing and writing.
Ability to drive automotive equipment.
This position is not eligible for Township-paid fringe benefits.