The Opportunity: America’s leading Jewish news organization, a reader-supported nonprofit, seeks an ambitious, innovative development professional to elevate our major-donor and foundation programs. This moment presents significant opportunity to grow the Forward’s support.About The Forward: The Forward is the leading Jewish voice in American journalism, fully digital since 2019, reaching 1.5 million people a month. We deliver award-winning news, vibrant cultural coverage, and a spectrum of opinion. Momentum has increased since removing our paywall in late 2023.The Role: Lead major-gifts and institutional giving to match our award-winning journalism with an ambitious development program. Manage a three-person team to expand the base of supporters, grow major donors, and support new projects that showcase our work and galvanize support.Core Responsibilities:- Increase Donated Revenue: Significantly grow major donated revenue ($2.9MM in 2024) via annual and special campaigns, from existing and prospective supporters.- Lead Major Donors and Foundations Programs: Identify, engage, solicit, and steward donors/foundations, focusing on $100,000+ gifts. Manage your own portfolio and those of staff/lay leaders.- Fundraising Strategy & Infrastructure: Design and implement a multi-year major-gifts program aligned with long-term strategy; oversee systems, planning, and operations.- Collaborative Leadership: Partner with the CEO on priorities, approaches, targets, and roadmaps for diversified revenue generation.- Visibility & Outreach: Elevate Forward’s presence in philanthropy and journalism; serve as a national brand ambassador.- Diversify Revenue Streams: Oversee special events, donor-driven initiatives, sponsorships, and grants.Qualifications – Skills & Experience:- Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years in fundraising leadership.- Deep background in major gifts, institutional giving, and donor strategy.- Track record securing five-to-seven figure gifts.- Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.- Success managing and motivating high-performing teams.- Familiarity with journalism, cultural institutions, and the Jewish community.Personal Qualities:- Proactive, results-driven, creative, and ambitious.- Relationship builder who connects with Forward readers.- Innovative thinker and problem solver.- Highest integrity, diplomacy, warmth, collaborative spirit.- Deep passion for the Forward’s mission and excellence in journalism.What We Offer:- Hybrid work: onsite 1–2 days/week in NYC office.- Generous benefits: health, life, 401k with match after first year, STD/LTD, FSA, transit, generous vacation incl. Jewish holidays.- Opportunity to positively impact independent Jewish journalism.- Salary range: $175,000–$205,000, commensurate with experience.Application Process: Send cover letter and resume to jobs@forward.com with subject line “VP Advancement”.