Now Hiring: Development Officer 

Reports to Founder & President
Remote position 

United for Iran is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization started and operated by Iranian activists and former political prisoners. We advance civil liberties and human rights in Iran by strengthening Iranian civil society, supporting Iranian freedom movements, and building people’s power through cutting-edge research and technology. We envision an Iran where all Iranians—in particular women, ethnic and religious minorities, the queer community, and the economically disenfranchised—are ensured equality, equity, and full political, economic, social, and cultural freedoms. An Iran that is vibrant, just, open and democratic.

In collaboration with the Founder & President, the Development Officer will build out the Individual Donor and Major Gifts portfolio of United for Iran and will focus on major donor cultivation and stewardship as well as some grant writing, database management, and event planning to ensure the organization’s financial sustainability and growth. This is a new role for United for Iran, and it requires strong communication, writing, and project management skills, collaboration, creativity, and a deep commitment to our mission.
new role for United for Iran

RESPONSIBILITIES

Individual Donors and Major Gifts Fundraising (40%)

  • Fundraising Strategy: Works with the Founder & President to develop and implement fundraising plans focused on high networth individuals, major gifts, foundations, and corporations.
  • Major Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: This position supports the Founder and president with all activities related to building and maintaining relationships with donors, including donor prospecting, cultivation and stewardship, gift acknowledgment, arranging and planning meetings, and updating donors on the impact of their contributions.
  • Prospect Research: Researches, identifies, and follows up with prospective private, government, and corporate funders.
  • Relationship-Building: Uses all methods of communication (in-person, phone, email, presentations, website, and fundraising platforms) to develop relationships with donors.
  • Innovation in Fundraising: Continuously researches and tests new and innovative fundraising strategies and channels to diversify and increase revenue streams.
  • Performance Monitoring: Tracks and evaluates the effectiveness of fundraising efforts, adjusting strategies as needed.

Writing and Communications (35%)

  • Grant Writing: Researches, writes, and submits LOIs and grant proposals to secure funding from private and family foundations. Drafts monthly status and progress reports.
  • Copywriting and Editing: Writes the first draft of all fundraising materials. Edits and proofreads public-facing fundraising communication before it’s published. 
  • Fundraising Materials: Creates content for fundraising campaigns, such as brochures, newsletters, social media posts, webpages, and email fundraising campaigns.
  • Presentations: Develops slide decks and talking points to prepare the Founder & President for public speaking opportunities.
  • Impact Reporting: Regularly reports on the impact of funds raised, showing donors and stakeholders the tangible benefits of their contributions.

Donor Database Management (15%)

  • Maintain Donor Records: Manages and regularly maintains a donor database to track contributions, donor preferences, and all communication with donors and grantmakers.
  • Data Analysis: Analyzes donor data to identify trends and opportunities for new fundraising strategies and tactics.

Partnerships, Networking, and Events (10%)

  • Build Partnerships: Develop and maintain relationships with corporate partners, community organizations, and other stakeholders to support fundraising efforts.
  • Networking: Actively participates in relevant networks, conferences, and events to identify new opportunities for collaboration and fundraising. Serve as an ambassador for United for Iran, promoting its mission and programs to the broader community.
  • Fundraising Events: Once per year, plans and executes an event such as an in-person community or an online fundraiser to raise money and awareness for the organization. Manages event planning contractors as needed. 
  • Special Fundraising Projects: Manages special fundraising projects under the guidance of the Founder & President.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • A minimum of 4-6 years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, and managing donor data, reports, and metrics.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in nonprofit management, communications, business, or a related field.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor management.
  • Strong grant management, writing, and proposal development skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Experience with donor database tools and a high level of proficiency to learn and adapt to any new online fundraising/CRM tools.
  • Knowledge and experience in using social media and website maintenance is a plus.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
  • Passion for United for Iran’s mission.
  • Persian language proficiency is a plus.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

U4I staff enjoys generous benefits including unlimited paid time off, teleworking options, self-funded 401(K) plan, and flexible schedules, all while taking pride in meaningful work with a critical social mission.

United for Iran values diversity and provides equal opportunities to all people submitting their qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. People of color, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Salary commensurate with geography and level of experience ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 though we will explore a bit more for those with more experience than requested. 

HOW TO APPLY

Please send your resume, cover letter, and at least two professional references (please include their name, their professional relationship to you and their email address) to jobs@united4iran.org. 

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

The hiring process will include up to three interviews and a one-page assignment for the finalists.