Description

Job Summary
The Development Officer – Corporate Giving & Special Events is responsible for two of Educational First Steps’ most impactful fundraising efforts: corporate philanthropy and the annual gala. This role develops and manages a corporate giving strategy and leads the planning and execution of the organization’s signature fundraising event and other ancillary events. Success in this role will be measured by increased corporate revenue, strengthened donor relationships, and high-performing, mission-driven events.

Key Responsibilities
Corporate Giving & Sponsorships – Annual Goal: $250,000+
Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward corporate donors and partners.
Develop compelling sponsorship proposals and pitch materials.
Build a pipeline of corporate prospects aligned with EFS’s mission and goals.
Ensure sponsor benefit fulfillment, recognition, and engagement throughout the year.
Work in partnership with the Grants Manager to align corporate gift and grant strategies.
Maintain accurate records in the CRM and provide progress reports to the CDO.
Annual Gala Leadership – Annual Goal: $750,000+
Lead all aspects of the annual fundraising gala, from strategy through execution.
Manage event planning timelines, logistics, budgets, and vendor relationships.
Collaborate with event consultants, production teams, and the development team to ensure a seamless guest experience.
Drive sponsorship and ticket sales in partnership with the CDO and gala committee.
Support and guide the gala committee to maximize event participation and revenue.
Oversee gala donor recognition, stewardship, and post-event follow-up.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration & Internal Reporting
Serve as liaison to the development committee on matters related to corporate engagement and the gala.
Coordinate with the marketing and communications team to align messaging and branding for events and sponsorships.
Work closely with program and finance teams to align funding opportunities with organizational priorities.
Ensure detailed tracking of donor and prospect activity using the CRM system (Bloomerang) and task management (Monday.com).

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience
Minimum 5 years of nonprofit development experience, with an emphasis on event fundraising and corporate giving.
Proven track record of securing five- and six-figure corporate gifts and sponsorships.
Demonstrated success in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events, preferably galas.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Strong relationship-building, presentation, and negotiation abilities.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Experience with donor databases/CRMs; Bloomerang experience a plus.
Passion for early childhood education and commitment to EFS’s mission.

Fundraising Goals
Revenue Stream Annual Goal
Corporate Giving & Sponsorships $250,000+
Annual Gala (Sponsorship + Ticket Revenue) $750,000+

Core Competencies for All EFS Staff
Mission-Focused: Passion for ensuring children have access to high-quality early childhood education.
Relationship-Oriented: Prioritizes strong relationships and meaningful collaboration.
Collaborator: Works effectively across teams and stakeholders to align fundraising goals.
Results-Driven: Motivated by clear goals, outcomes, and long-term impact.
Brand Steward: Represents and protects the reputation of the organization with professionalism.