About THRIVE

THRIVE Social Services is a community-based organization supporting children, youth, adults, and families across Greater Victoria for 40 years. Through a range of programs focused on mental health, family support, youth development, and community connection, THRIVE works alongside people to build skills, strengthen relationships, and support long-term well-being.

THRIVE is known for its collaborative, strengths-based approach and deep connections in the community. As the lead agency for the creation of Foundry Westshore, THRIVE is helping bring an integrated model of care to the region, making it easier for young people and their families to access the support they need, when and where they need it most.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Development & Communications is a senior leadership role responsible for building and leading THRIVE’s fund development and communications work.

THRIVE is entering a significant period of growth, including the launch of Foundry Westshore and the continued expansion of services for youth and families. This role will lead the delivery of a multi-year fundraising and communications strategy that supports long-term sustainability and strengthens THRIVE’s role in the community.

The Director will lead all areas of fundraising, including major gifts, corporate partnerships, grants, annual and monthly giving, and community-based fundraising. They will also guide THRIVE’s external communications, including donor engagement, storytelling, and overall brand presence.

This is a leadership role with a strong focus on building. The successful candidate will establish systems, grow a donor base, and bring structure and consistency to fundraising and communications. They will work closely with staff and the Board to build confidence, clarify roles, and support a shared approach to fundraising across the organization.

This role is designed for the long term. While it will play a key role in advancing the Foundry Westshore campaign, its primary purpose is to build a sustainable and diversified revenue model that will support THRIVE’s work for years to come.

Key Responsibilities

FUND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY & LEADERSHIP

Lead implementation of THRIVE’s fund development strategy.
Develop and manage annual fundraising plans and revenue forecasts.
Build a diversified revenue program across major gifts, corporate partnerships, grants, annual giving, and community fundraising.
Provide regular updates and insights to the Executive Director and Board.

MAJOR GIFTS & CAMPAIGN LEADERSHIP

Build and manage a major gifts pipeline.
Develop tailored engagement strategies for priority donors.
Support the Executive Director and Board in donor relationships and solicitations.
Contribute to the advancement of the Foundry Westshore campaign and help transition campaign donors into long-term supporters.

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS & GRANTS

Develop and grow a corporate partnership and sponsorship program.
Build relationships with local and regional businesses.
Lead grant research, proposal development, and reporting.
Strengthen relationships with foundations and work toward multi-year funding.

ANNUAL GIVING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Design and launch annual and monthly giving programs.
Develop strategies to attract and retain donors.
Lead community fundraising initiatives, including events and third-party fundraising.
Build relationships with service clubs and community groups.

COMMUNICATIONS, BRAND & STORYTELLING

Lead communications in support of fundraising.
Develop a clear and consistent case for support.
Oversee website content, social media, and newsletters.
Support the creation of donor communications and impact reports.
Ensure storytelling reflects THRIVE’s values and is respectful and strengths-based.

SYSTEMS, OPERATIONS & COMPLIANCE

Lead implementation and ongoing use of Salesforce CRM.
Establish systems for donor tracking, reporting, and stewardship.
Oversee gift processing and acknowledgment processes.
Ensure compliance with CRA receipting requirements and fundraising standards.
Monitor performance and adjust strategies as needed.

CULTURE OF PHILANTHROPY & INTERNAL CAPACITY

Support staff and Board in understanding their role in fundraising.
Provide tools, guidance, and training.
Help build a shared approach to donor engagement across the organization.
Support the development of a Fund Development Committee.

Role Requirements & Expectations

QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE

5 to 8 years of experience in fundraising, fund development, or related roles.
Demonstrated success securing major gifts, partnerships, or grants.
Experience building or growing a fundraising program is an asset.
Experience with campaigns is an asset.
Post-secondary education in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
CFRE is considered an asset.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

Strong relationship-building skills.
Clear and effective communication, both written and verbal.
Ability to develop compelling messaging and donor materials.
Experience with CRM systems, ideally Salesforce.
Strong organizational and planning skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

ATTRIBUTES

Commitment to THRIVE’s mission and community impact.
High level of integrity and professionalism.
Proactive and solutions-oriented.
Comfortable working in a growing organization.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally safe engagement.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hybrid work environment in the Greater Victoria / Westshore area.
Occasional evening or weekend work for events and meetings.
Some local travel required.
Criminal record check required.

SUCCESS METRICS

Achievement of annual fundraising targets.
Growth in donor base and retention rates.
Development of a strong major gifts pipeline.
Progress on Foundry-related fundraising.
Effective use of CRM and reporting systems.
Increased community awareness and engagement.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Salary range: $95,000 to $115,000, based on experience.
Comprehensive Benefits package including:
20 days paid holidays per year plus 12 paid statutory holidays.
Extended Health Plan (including vision, dental and para-medical services).
Municipal Pension Plan.
Assistance with relocation costs is possible.
Professional development opportunities.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Statement

THRIVE is committed to building an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We are committed to culturally safe practices and meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities and all those we serve.

Applicants who require accommodations during the recruitment process are encouraged to reach out confidentially.

This recruitment is being led by Gerard Search on behalf of Thrive Social Services Society.

Application deadline: We are accepting rolling applications until the position is filled.

Check the status of the search process here

THRIVE Social Services jobs

Director of Development and Communications

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