Strategic Partnerships Director

Job Title: Strategic Partnerships Director

Company: First Story

Location: Bend, OR (in office)

Career Area: Non‑Profit

Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, nonprofit management, or related field preferred.

Experience: 3–5 years of experience in event planning, public relations, or marketing. Strong background in event management and public speaking.

Travel: After 1 year, travel will require up to 4 weeks, 2 times / year across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.

We are proud to be Great Place to Work Certified® and selected as a Fortune 100 Best Workplaces!

About First Story: First Story is a nonprofit organization and lender committed to changing lives through affordable home ownership opportunities. We work alongside our founders Hayden Homes and Simplicity by Hayden Homes to break down barriers to home ownership and build brighter futures for under‑resourced families across the Northwest.

The Strategic Partnerships Director will strengthen and expand First Story’s impact by deepening relationships with its founding partners— Hayden Homes and Simplicity by Hayden Homes—and cultivating meaningful community connections across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. They will lead the planning and execution of signature events and outreach initiatives that celebrate shared impact, inspire engagement, and increase the number of families served each year.

In the first year, the Strategic Partnerships Director will build strong institutional knowledge and a holistic understanding of First Story, while working closely with the Business Development Manager and independently, ensuring continuity across core operational functions and daily workflows. During this time, this position will provide hands‑on support for the systems, programs, and relationships that power First Story’s work.

• Event Coordination & Leadership
  • Design and deliver high‑impact engagement experiences in collaboration with the ED that strengthen relationships with founding partners, donors, community partners, and homeowners—serving in lead or support roles as needed.
  • Plan and execute signature events from concept to completion by overseeing logistics, vendor coordination, timelines, and follow‑up reporting.
  • Serve as emcee or speaker and develop compelling, mission‑aligned event materials that create memorable experiences and celebrate the impact of affordable home ownership.
• Social Media Management
  • Develop and execute a mission‑driven content strategy that expands audience reach and deepens engagement.
  • Manage and grow First Story’s social media channels.
  • Monitor analytics and engagement to inform strategy and expand audience reach.
• Fundraising & Donor Engagement Support
  • Contribute to event planning, donor experiences, and relationship building initiatives.
  • Shape thoughtful, authentic approaches to donor stewardship that align with First Story’s mission and values.
• Business Development Administrative Support
  • Marketing, graphic design, social media, and website management.
  • Manage the data entry and monthly reconciliation for charitable covenant program, while maintaining accurate reports and processing covenant removals.
  • Event planning and coordination for team builds, annual events.
  • Manage and process incoming applications, responding to emails and inquiries regarding the nonprofit and lending program, including insurance for borrowers, HOA payments, etc.
  • Process donations.
  • Provide notary support.
  • Process year‑end requirements for tax letters and annual impact report.
• Other duties as assigned

Success in this role is driven by embracing both the heart and hustle of a small, mission‑driven team—stepping in wherever needed to advance First Story’s work, from day‑to‑day administrative support to big‑picture strategy and future visioning. Willingness to collaborate, stay flexible, and take ownership will strengthen the organization at every level. Leaning into opportunities for professional growth, you’ll expand your leadership capacity and strategic impact—growing alongside the organization and helping guide it toward even greater community impact.

• Education
  • Bachelor…