Since 1953, Empower Simcoe has specialized in providing a wide range of programs and services for people and families throughout Simcoe County. We are looking for innovative, passionate, and dedicated employees. Our inclusive culture empowers all of us to Be, Belong and Thrive. If you are looking for a career where you can make a difference and feel proud of the work you do every day, you've come to the right place. Your future starts now at Empower Simcoe
We are seeking a dynamic and results oriented full-time Director Fund Development and Donor Relations to lead, and advance Empower Simcoe's fundraising initiatives through transformational philanthropy and strategic relationship building, guided by Empower Simcoe's mission, vision and core values. Reporting to the CEO, this key leadership role will be responsible for overall fund development and revenue generation, with a strong commitment to cultivating a diverse and robust funding base to support Empower Simcoe's strategic planning initiatives. The Director Fund Development and Donor Relations will cultivate and foster meaningful connections with donors, partners, and the community to inspire lasting support that drives impactful change.
The Director Fund Development and Donor Relations will lead the planning and execution of key fundraising campaigns, events, grant applications, sponsorship acquisition, and donor cultivation efforts.
If you are passionate about the nonprofit sector and bring experience in fundraising, donor development, or strategic partnerships, we invite you to apply to lead strategic philanthropic growth, cultivate meaningful donor relationships, and help advance our mission.
Compensation Package:
Minimum starting rate of $62.42 per hour; $121,719 annualized. 11 statutory holidays are observed, with public holiday pay. 4% vacation pay paid bi-weekly during probationary period. Confidential Employer paid Employee Assistance Program for you and your family members. Following the successful completion of probation:
Employer paid benefits (life insurance, short- and long-term disability benefits, health and dental). Group RRSP plan with Employer matched benefit up to 5% of gross earnings biweekly. Employer paid sick, personal leave and vacation time. Opportunity to work remotely up to 60% of scheduled hours. Minimum requirements of these positions include:
Proven successful completion of diploma or degree in Fundraising, Communications, Business Administration or an acceptable equivalent diploma/degree program as determined by the employer. Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) accreditation is required. Minimum 7 years full-time recent experience in strategically developing and cultivating philanthropic relationships. Proven success in managing a diverse portfolio of donors across all giving levels, including individual donor identification, personalized cultivation strategies, solicitation and ongoing stewardship. Experience in grant writing and donor proposals is an asset. Exceptional writing, storytelling, with the highest attention to detail, and the ability to make a persuasive case in proposals to convey the impact of philanthropic supports. Strong critical thinking and communication skills, both oral and written. Demonstrated ability to leverage networking, research, and data-driven approaches to expand the donor base. Demonstrated commitment to the principles of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA). Current valid driver's licence and own reliable transportation to be used in the course of employment. Duties and responsibilities (including, but not limited to):
Translate the Agency's strategic plan into clear, actionable short- and long-term fundraising strategies to meet organizational revenue goals and expand Empower Simcoe's philanthropic base. Cultivate, develop, and steward relationships with individual donors, foundations, corporate partners, sponsors, and community stakeholders to secure annual and long-term funding commitments. Identify, qualify, solicit, and steward new and existing donors through personalized engagement, stewardship, and recognition strategies that strengthen long-term donor relationships. Oversee all proposal and grant development, including research, writing, reporting, and compliance with funding and accountability requirements. Investigate opportunities for new sources of revenue, including sponsorships, social gaming, and other diversified fundraising initiatives. Develop and present an annual fundraising plan with defined actionable steps, realistic timelines, clear goals, and measurable performance indicators for the Foundation Board of Trustees and Chief Executive Officer. Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising campaigns, events, and community engagement activities, ensuring strong return on investment and alignment with the Agency's mission, vision, values, and core values. Represent Empower Simcoe at community events, networking opportunities, and public forums to promote the Agency's mission and enhance donor participation, community involvement, and sponsor stewardship. Serve as a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and Foundation Board of Trustees, providing donor intelligence, philanthropic trends, market insights, and strategic recommendations. Lead, supervise, and develop a high-performing fund development team, including hiring, coaching, training, performance management, and succession planning, while ensuring staff understand and implement Agency Standards of Practice. Ensure ethical, legal, fiduciary, and licensing compliance in all fundraising activities, uphold ethical fundraising practices. Empower Simcoe is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or disability. Applications are encouraged from those who reflect the diversity of our community.
SUBMIT APPLICATION BY:
Internal 4:00 p.m. February 17, 2026
External 4:00 p.m. February 24, 2026
Empower Simcoe is committed to being non-discriminatory and providing equal and barrier-free selection and appointment processes and work environments. If contacted in relation to this position, please let us know if you require accommodation during the recruitment and selection process. Our inclusive culture empowers all of us to Be, Belong and Thrive.
Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any issues with the application process, please contact the People and Culture Department at
Vacant Position Posting #26-25
