Associate Director of Development

Overview

Lifeline Children’s Services is seeking a strategic and relational Associate Director of Development to lead major philanthropic efforts in Mississippi. This role is primarily focused on maximizing charitable tax credit opportunities to advance our mission of serving vulnerable children and families.

The Associate Director serves as a strategic relationship leader, responsible for cultivating and managing key donor partnerships and engaging new corporate and individual supporters. Working closely with the Mississippi State Director and Advancement leadership, you will strive to meet annual fundraising goals and build sustainable revenue streams.

• Major Gift & Tax Credit Strategy: Lead the planning and growth of major gift initiatives, specifically focusing on the Mississippi Tax Credit Program.
• Donor Cultivation & Stewardship: Manage a portfolio of major gift donors, connecting their interests and giving capacity to Lifeline’s mission.
• Relationship Management: Personally engage partners through in-person meetings, presentations, and events to deepen trust and strengthen partnerships.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the VP of Advancement and internal teams to ensure a cohesive and high-quality donor experience.
• Revenue Planning: Monitor tax credit platforms and plan strategically to fully leverage available funding to meet or exceed state budget goals.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in nonprofit development, fundraising, or high-level sales, with an emphasis on major gifts.
• Mission Alignment: Personal alignment with Lifeline’s mission and values, including the ability to sign and uphold our Employee Statement of Faith.
• Donor Expertise: Proven success in soliciting and stewarding high-capacity individual donors, corporate partners, and foundations.
• Business Acumen: Ability to communicate financial concepts and tax strategies effectively to donors.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with Mississippi charitable contribution tax credit programs is preferred.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal skills, with the ability to engage C-suite leaders.

Established in 1981, Lifeline exists to equip the body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children through holistic orphan care and advocacy. Following the call of James 1:27, we focus on adoption, family restoration, global orphan care, training, and counseling. We are a team of over 250 employees across 19 states dedicated to intentional discipleship and community transformation.