ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

Suncoast Searchlight, a nonprofit watchdog newsroom dedicated to in-depth journalism in Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties, seeks a dynamic and experienced Development Director to lead and expand its fundraising efforts. This role is crucial in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of our mission-driven newsroom, which delivers accountability-focused journalism that informs and empowers our communities.

The Development Director will be responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive development strategy, fostering relationships with donors and grantmakers, and securing resources to support impactful investigative and enterprise reporting. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a passion for nonprofit journalism, strong fundraising expertise, and a deep commitment to public service.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Development Director is a key leadership role reporting directly to the Executive Editor-in-Chief. This individual will oversee all fundraising activities, including major gifts, foundation grants, corporate partnerships, and individual donor programs. The Development Director will work closely with the newsroom leadership and Board of Directors to cultivate support for Suncoast Searchlights mission.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Strategy & Execution

• Develop and implement a strategic fundraising plan to increase philanthropic support and diversify revenue streams.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
• Oversee grant research, writing, and reporting to ensure compliance and alignment with funding priorities.
• Plan and execute fundraising campaigns, annual giving appeals, and special events.
• Manage donor recognition, stewardship, and engagement activities.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Work closely with the Executive Editor-in-Chief and Board of Directors to drive fundraising initiatives.
• Provide strategic guidance on fundraising priorities and opportunities.
• Collaborate with editorial and engagement teams to align fundraising with newsroom impact and audience outreach.
• Oversee donor database management, ensuring accurate tracking and reporting of contributions.

Community & Partner Engagement

• Represent Suncoast Searchlight at community events, industry conferences, and donor meetings.
• Build partnerships with local and national organizations to enhance fundraising opportunities.
• Develop compelling storytelling materials that communicate the newsrooms impact to funders and stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or a related field.
• Track record of securing major gifts, grants, and corporate sponsorships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to craft compelling donor messaging.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
• Experience with donor management software and fundraising technology.
• Passion for journalism, press freedom, and public-interest reporting.
• Knowledge of Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties philanthropic landscape is a plus.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary range: $125,000-$150,000, based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits, including health insurance and paid time off.
• Flexible work environment with opportunities for professional development.
• Meaningful work that directly supports investigative journalism and community impact.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume detailing your experience and interest in the role to executive editor-in-chief Emily Le Coz at emily@suncoastsearchlight.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Suncoast Searchlight is a project of the Community News Collaborative, a nonprofit, Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex, gender, gender identity or expression.