Sr. Development Partner, Capital Campaigns

About Olds College of Agriculture and Technology

Founded in 1913, Olds College has been offering quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our regular programming, continued education, and online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.

At Olds College we value our people and are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. Olds College provides quality education in an environment that is designed to promote academic excellence and student success. There are many reasons to join Olds College and build a meaningful career in a community that is innovative, diverse and welcoming. Everything we do at Olds College is done to advance all aspects of the agriculture and agri-food community. All of our programs and actions align to our social purpose, "Transforming agriculture for a better world". Our mission is to ensure Alberta's agriculture community has the talent, knowledge, and thought leadership to lead globally.

The Opportunity:

As the Development Partner - Capital Campaign Fundraising at Olds College, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission by leading and executing strategic fundraising campaigns, writing and securing grants, drafting contribution agreements, and stewarding relationships to support our capital campaign programs and initiatives. Reporting to the Director, Development, you will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, donors, and community, industry, and government partners to drive engagement, secure funding, and enhance the impact of out institution.

The role also implements project management techniques and oversight of fundraising staff and/or contractors related specifically to capital fundraising, ensuring all processes adhere to College policies, guidelines, and procedures.

Key Job Functions:

Campaign Strategy and Planning

• Develop comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with institutional goals and priorities.
• Create detailed campaign plans, timelines, and budgets to guide implementation and ensure accountability.
• Identify key metrics and benchmarks to measure campaign progress and success.

Donor Cultivation and Relationship Management

• Cultivate strong relationships with existing and prospective donors, alumni, and corporate partners.
• Collaborate with the Development team to identify and prioritize donor prospects.
• Customize cultivation strategies to steward donors effectively and deepen their engagement with the institution.

Grant Writing and Management

• Research, identify, and pursue grant opportunities government agencies, foundations, and other funding sources.
• Develop compelling grant proposals, applications, and supporting materials to secure funding.
• Manage the grant application process, including proposal development, submission, and reporting requirements.

Contribution and Recognition Agreement Writing

• Draft contribution agreements and contracts for philanthropic donations, sponsorships, and partnerships.
• Ensure that contribution agreements align with the institution's objectives, legal requirements, and donor preferences.
• Collaborate with legal counsel and finance teams to review and negotiate contribution terms and conditions.

Campaign Execution and Oversight

• Lead cross-functional teams to execute fundraising campaigns effectively and efficiently.
• Coordinate the development of campaign materials, including proposals, solicitation letters, and donor communications.
• Monitor campaign progress, track fundraising metrics, and provide regular updates to stakeholders.

Events and Engagement Initiatives

• Plan and execute events, receptions, and donor recognition programs to engage stakeholders and showcase the impact of philanthropy.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Communications teams to promote fundraising initiatives through various channels, including social media, email marketing, and press releases.
• Travel may be required to attend events, conferences, and tradeshows for network and exhibition purposes.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with relevant fundraising regulations, ethical standards, and best practices.
• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions, gifts, and pledges using fundraising databases.
• Prepare regular progress reports, donor acknowledgments, and campaign updates for internal and external audiences.

Education/Experience Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, development, grant writing, contribution agreement writing, or project management, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit setting.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Proven track record of success in designing and implementing fundraising campaigns, securing major gifts, winning grants, and drafting contribution agreements.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, and institutional leaders.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate the institution's mission, vision, and funding priorities effectively.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop evidence-based fundraising strategies.
• Highly organized with exceptional project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in fundraising software, CRM systems, grant databases, legal contract management, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Working Conditions

• This position is required to work some evenings and weekends, and requires some travel time.
• Olds College representative at all times and shall conduct themselves accordingly.
• Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offenses.
• Must respect and actively promote health and safety policies.
• This position is expected to be knowledgeable of and follow College travel and expense policies.
• A valid and unrestricted driver's license.

Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan:

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)
• Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits
• Health/Personal Spending Account
• Generous Vacation Leave
• Paid Holiday Closure
• 'Olds College in the Community' volunteer leave
• Professional development and opportunities for growth

Open until suitable candidate is found.

We thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.