Director, Donor Stewardship
Environmental Defense Fund
New York, NY
Anticipated Start Date: 10/13/2025
Description
Location: Remote or hybrid schedule from an EDF U.S. office.
Duration: This is a three year fixed-term position, with full benefits and the possibility for extension
Overall Function: The Director, Donor Stewardship is responsible for developing and implementing a variety of short- and long-term priority stewardship initiatives for the Development department
The Director serves as a strategic partner to frontline fundraisers as well as operations and mission teams throughout EDF. They will be responsible for leading the effective management of donor stewardship policies and processes, including developing and implementing a centralized donor stewardship strategy. The Director reports to the Associate Vice President, Development Communications and Donor Stewardship and serves as part of the leadership team advising the AVP. The Director supervises a Senior Manager and Operations Coordinator.
Requirements
Develop and lead multiple, simultaneous stewardship initiatives and projects that are consistent with Development’s strategic priorities
Partner with frontline fundraisers and mission teams to develop creative, inspirational and customized stewardship products for top donors (for example videos, photo books and other tangibles that uniquely represent donors’ relationship with EDF)
Develop and implement a centralized donor stewardship strategy
Develop and oversee management of donor stewardship policies and processes
Supervise and mentor a small team producing a wide range of donor stewardship materials, setting priorities and strategic direction
Collaborate with Development Communications team on managing workflow for writing projects, mass emails, and other donor related activities
Build relationships and collaborate with the Development Leadership Team and portfolio managers to produce stewardship materials
Collaborate with the Donor Engagement team to develop materials related to those activities when needed
Collaborate with HR and finance on endowment related topics and issues
Maintain a working knowledge of the philanthropic priorities and activities of the organization’s top donors
Participate in advancing EDF’s organizational effectiveness and culture goals, so people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address environmental and organizational challenges in ways that align with EDF values
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree and a minimum 10 years of development/marketing/communications experience.
A Master’s degree or equivalent may substitute for up to 2 years of relevant experience
Demonstrated knowledge of environmental issues and/or related science and policy issues
Understanding of current principles and trends in fundraising, donor stewardship and non-profit management
Demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking, planning, organization, time management and project management skills
Outstanding interpersonal skills, including the ability to work well with a wide range of colleagues across geographies
Experience working in a matrixed organization with multiple internal/external stakeholders and teams and consultants spanning the globe Proven ability to use communications as a tool to achieve goals
Strong team management and mentoring skills
Superb strategy, writing, editing and communications skills
Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.
Sense of humor and ability to lead with kindness
Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive mindset and approach with rapidly shifting priorities and a fast-paced work environment
Salary Range and Employee Benefits
$140,000-$150,000 USD
We offer a strong total rewards package encompassing competitive salary, robust benefits, and professional development opportunities consistent with a modern global organization. We take into account factors such as candidate experience, skills, training, internal team equity and local norms. Please note that pay ranges are country specific. As a result, the stated currency is not meant be converted into any other currency.
How to Apply for this Job
A cover letter and either a writing sample or prospectus, specifically written for high worth donors, are required for consideration. Please use this link:
About the Organization
With world attention on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. By focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches, we tackle urgent threats with practical solutions. We are one of the world’s largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of approximately 700 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world.
We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You will be part of a vibrant workplace where innovation and results are a way of life. EDF envisions a world in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected to the environmental challenges we face and are engaged in creating durable, equitable solutions. We seek talented candidates who share our Core Values of Respect, Results, Innovation, Optimism, and Integrity, and support our Commitment to Diversity.
Locations New York, Austin, Boston, Boulder, Raleigh, Remote - US, San Francisco, Washington, D.C.
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