Philanthropy Director

Description:

JA South Western Ontario, part of JA Canada and JA Worldwide—the largest global not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth business education—is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Philanthropy. This senior leadership role is essential in driving the organization’s fundraising efforts, helping to educate and empower young people across Southwestern Ontario in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness.

The Director, Philanthropy, will be responsible for crafting and leading a high-impact resource development strategy aligned with JA’s mission and ambitious growth plans. You will build and steward a diverse portfolio of corporate, foundation, and individual partners, driving sustainable revenue growth to support JA’s programs.

A key aspect of the role involves delivering signature fundraising events, including prestigious community recognitions like the London & District Business Hall of Fame and the Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. These events serve to strengthen community engagement and raise JA’s profile.

You will champion a culture of philanthropy within the organization, leading and mentoring a collaborative fundraising team. Working closely with the President & CEO and other senior leaders, you will influence strategic decision-making and ensure cross-functional collaboration among programming, marketing, and fundraising teams to maximize donor engagement and retention.

Your responsibilities will also include operational excellence: managing budgets, forecasts, and CRM systems (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge), tracking fundraising performance metrics, and ensuring compliance and transparency in all donor agreements.

Success in this role requires a strategic mindset, proven track record in securing major gifts (five- and six-figure), grant writing, sponsorship development, and event leadership. You will be an excellent communicator and storyteller, able to translate program impact into compelling narratives that inspire donor loyalty.

This role requires flexibility to work in a hybrid environment with offices in London or Waterloo, and regional travel across Southwestern Ontario. A suitable home office with secure internet access is required. The candidate must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement integrated fundraising strategies to grow revenue across multiple streams: major gifts, sponsorships, grants, and events

• Lead planning and execution of hallmark fundraising events

• Cultivate and steward relationships with top donors and corporate sponsors

• Translate program results into compelling donor-centered stories

• Lead, coach, and build a high-performing development team

• Oversee fundraising operations, budgeting, CRM, and reporting

• Serve as strategic advisor to the President & CEO and represent JA SWO in the philanthropic sector

Qualifications:

• 8 to 10+ years of progressive fundraising experience with demonstrated success in securing major gifts and partnerships

• Strong strategic thinking and ability to connect fundraising goals with organizational mission

• Experience with fundraising CRM systems (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge preferred)

• Excellent communication, storytelling, and presentation skills

• Post-secondary education required; CFRE designation or progress towards it is an asset

• Knowledge of Southwestern Ontario philanthropic and corporate landscape highly preferred

• Valid driver’s license and vehicle for regional travel

• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment with a quiet home office setup

Salary: CA$65,000 to CA$80,000 annually (dependent on experience)
Work Hours: Full-time, 40 hours/week with some evenings and weekends as required
Work Location: Hybrid, based out of London or Waterloo office with travel in Southwestern Ontario