JOB SUMMARY:

The Deputy Executive Director for the Eastern Region is a pivotal role focused on leading major gifts fundraising efforts in the Southeastern United States. Based at CARE’s headquarters in Atlanta, this position requires a seasoned and entrepreneurial fundraiser adept at working closely with CARE’s CEO and Executive Leadership to build relationships at the highest levels. Reporting to the Executive Director for the Eastern Region, the Deputy Director will provide strategic leadership to advance all aspects of CARE's major gifts program, with a focus on elevating CARE’s presence in key markets in the Southeast. They will supervise and mentor a small team while personally managing a portfolio of high-value donors capable of making six- and seven-figure contributions. 
 
The ideal candidate will bring 8-12 years of frontline fundraising experience, a proven track record of engaging with high-net-worth individuals in the Southeast, and strong leadership skills. The Deputy Director will not only develop and lead strategies that deliver outstanding results but also play a key role in working strategically with CARE’s CEO in Atlanta and building robust relationships with various internal teams to support major donor engagement. This is an exciting opportunity for an accomplished fundraiser to join a leading organization working around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty, and achieve social justice. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy Creation and Execution 

• Build and provide strategic leadership for the Major Gifts Program across the Southeast region, including developing new strategies to improve donor stewardship and secure six- and seven-figure gifts from top donors and prospects.
• Bring fresh ideas and lead the delivery of an ambitious strategy to elevate CARE’s prominence and position in key Southeast markets, focusing on building relationships with philanthropic communities in Georgia and Florida. Track, monitor, and report on strategy, challenges, and market learnings.
• Build strong high-trust relationships with CARE CEO Michelle Nunn and her Atlanta-based office, Board of Directors, and other key internal and external stakeholders to ensure support for major gift fundraising initiatives. Work collaboratively with leadership to identify prospects, open doors, speak passionately on behalf of CARE’s mission, and solicit donors.

Fundraising and External Relations 

• Meet individual and team KPIs for the Southeast market, including an annual fundraising goal for the region of approximately $4 million. 
• Personally manage and grow a portfolio of approximately 75 high-net-worth donors and prospects to generate significant financial support for CARE, setting strategies for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Lead major gift campaigns and align event strategies in the Southeast market; advise and collaborate with Marketing and Events teams on the planning and execution of fundraising events and activities to maximize major donor engagement and build CARE’s public presence.  

Management and Team Leadership 

• Manage a small regional team (1-2 staff) to execute strategic priorities and support growth, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Serve in a Deputy function to the Executive Director of the broader Eastern region, ensuring all aspects of the Major Gifts program in the region are operating efficiently, with clear metrics and accountabilities that concisely demonstrate the team’s effectiveness. 
• Actively engage with Major Gifts and Resource Development Leadership to provide strong collegial support that models positive, solutions-focused, and data-based decision-making.
• Undertake special projects and other responsibilities as needed. 

Other Duties as Assigned

• As a Deputy to the Executive Director, the role will take on additional responsibilities and duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree required, master's degree a plus. 
• Minimum of 8-12 years’ relevant work experience, with at least 6-8 years of frontline major gifts fundraising experience in the Southeast region and proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts.
• Experience managing frontline fundraisers with a track record of improving performance and growing revenue over time.  
• Demonstrated ability to serve as a trusted strategic thought partner to senior leadership.
• Keen attention to detail, flexibility in high-pressure situations and the willingness to assist with all tasks needed to ensure the success of a small regional team, 
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Evidence of strong analytic skills and strategy development.
• Comfort and fluency with Salesforce or another fundraising CRM.