Director of Fundraising & Development

The Justice Climate Fund (JCF) is a national, mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to mobilizing capital and resources to advance clean energy projects in under-resourced communities. By working with a network of community-based lenders serving over 113 million Americans across all 50 states, JCF drives investments that promote clean energy, clean air and water, improved public health, and economic resilience—creating well-paying jobs and ensuring a just and sustainable energy transition for all communities.

JCF is supported by an existing ecosystem of coalition members, including the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs, National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, National Bankers Community Alliance, Community Development Bankers Association, and Oweesta Corporation, along with technical assistance partners that will help community lenders deploy clean energy projects.

This is an exciting time for JCF, as we move forward with multiple waves of funding for projects across the country, from rural Appalachia to urban communities to the Southeast, Midwest and beyond. This newly created position will help JCF advance its mission, increase brand awareness and support, and position the organization as a leader in its field.

About the Position

JCF seeks a Director of Fundraising and Development to support the implementation of an effective fundraising plan and help shape JCF’s capital-raising strategy. Reporting to the Chief Engagement & Strategy Officer, this role is ideal for an entrepreneurial and results-driven fundraising professional who thrives in a dynamic, purpose-built start-up environment. The Director will play a critical leadership role in shaping and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that engages national, regional and local funders across climate, economic and community development, equity and justice sectors.

JCF is uniquely positioned to deliver on environmental, economic and social impact for through a robust network of mission-driven lenders, including Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) across the U.S. The Director will have the opportunity to dream big, execute innovative fundraising strategies and inspire a broad base of supporter to join our mission.

Job Responsibilities

Strategic Fundraising and Development

• Develop and execute a fundraising strategy: Lead the creation and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising plan leveraging diverse funding streams including philanthropic, corporate, institutional investors and individual donors.
• Identify and cultivate donor relationships: Research, build and steward relationships with funders focused on climate, community and economic development, equity and justice, and other relevant sectors such as ESG, positioning JCF as a high-impact partner.
• Craft compelling proposals and concept papers: Design and deliver grant proposals and pitches tailored to funder/donor interests and aligned with JCF’s strategic priorities.
• Lead donor stewardship: Develop and implement donor engagement strategies, ensuring funders are informed, inspired and connected to JCF’s mission and vision.
• Support ad-hoc events and campaigns: Collaborate across the strategy team including partnerships, communications and impact to implement ad hoc events and campaigns that grow visibility and support for JCF’s work.
• Develop and maintain a fundraising calendar: Develop an annual calendar that integrates grant deadlines, fundraising campaigns, donor engagement events, and reporting requirements.

Operational Excellence

• Track and optimize fundraising progress: Establish KPI’s and systems to track progress towards fundraising goals, using data to inform decisions and adapt strategies.
• Ensure compliance and integrity: maintain compliance with ethical and regulatory fundraising strategies, upholding trust of donors and funding partners.
• Leverage technology: Work with leadership to identify and support the implementation of donor management systems and tools to streamline fundraising operations, enhance donor experiences, and support a remote working environment.
• Develop fundraising policies: Partner with the Compliance, Finance and Operations to build fundraising policies including transparency with donors and compliance with fundraising regulations (e.g., IRS rules, donor acknowledgment timelines, etc.).

Collaborative Leadership

• Engage executive leadership: Partner with the CSEO and CEO to engage JCF’s Board in fundraising initiatives, including identifying and cultivating high-impact fundraising opportunities.
• Engage stakeholders: Work cross-functionally to align fundraising priorities with organizational goals and to amplify JCF’s mission and impact through storytelling.
• Lead with an abundance mindset: Inspire a culture of possibility and optimism, encouraging the team to think big and explore innovative opportunities for growth. This includes focusing on the strengths of the organization and its stakeholders, identifying untapped resources and connections, and fostering collaborative partnerships that amplify impact.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Related advanced degree preferred
• 10 years of experience in a nonprofit/foundation focused on increasing fundraising capital for programs
• Must be deeply aligned with JCF’s mission, demonstrating a genuine passion for, and experience in, environmental justice and community lending
• Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) certification a plus
• Ability to attend donor meetings and events. This will also include nights and weekends as needed
• Overnight travel will also be required occasionally (25% travel).
• Must thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, as the organization is a new startup that is continuously evolving
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with a comfort for soliciting major gifts frequently from partners
• Experience with CRM/Fundraising Software
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills with keen attention to detail
• Demonstrated success in building and leading teams, with a focus on achieving organizational goals and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning
• Ability to deliver measurable outcomes through creativity and data-driven decision-making
• A collaborative, flexible leader who projects maturity, confidence, and credibility to external stakeholders, investors, partners and brings exceptional skills as an active listener, community convener, consensus builder, and advisor

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health benefits package
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development funds and opportunities
• Collaborative and inclusive organizational culture

An Equal-Opportunity Employer with a Commitment to Diversity

The Justice Climate Fund (JCF) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As an organization committed to diversity, we consider applicants equally without regard to age, race, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, or national origin on the basis of genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, or veteran status.