Tennessee Innocence Project

Director of Development

Tennessee Innocence Project

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Job Summary

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Director of Development at the Tennessee Innocence Project is a creative and goal-oriented individual with a proven background in grants and major gifts. They possess a diverse set of skills, from writing, to networking, to knowing how to technically grow a Development Program. They’re a “people person,” who’s smart and creative. They’re thoughtful, and organized, and never met a problem they didn’t want to attack head-on. And lastly, they’re someone who gets excited about rolling up their sleeves in a hands-on environment, getting down to work, making a difference in people’s lives, and looks forward to the challenge of building something great.

WHO YOU ARE:

  • You’re a dynamic and experienced development professional who knows how to navigate the ever-changing waters of fundraising in a contemporary non-profit environment.
  • First and foremost, you’re a hard worker. You’re diligent. You see things through. You care about doing the job, and ensuring that the job is done right, because you know that the work you’re doing is vitally important.
  • You are organized. Not just organized, you make lists for your lists. Super-duper, checklist-having double check it twice, details aren’t just a thing, they’re the only thing, type of organized.
  • You’re definitely a problem solver. No two days are alike. No two situations are exactly the same. You love the idea of a new challenge every day. Reading this bullet point literally makes you excited about the possibilities.
  • You’re a communicator. You’re thoughtful. You listen and learn. And you’re great at telling a story that has a narrative and leads to action.
  • You’re passionate. You care about our mission and you’re driven to expand and support the Tennessee Innocence Project and our organization’s goals.
  • You like to stay ahead of the curve. You anticipate, you’re curious and you act with intention.

WHO WE ARE:

Launched in February 2019 as the state’s first full-time innocence organization, the Tennessee Innocence Project (TIP) is a 501c3 nonprofit law firm working to free the wrongfully convicted across the state of Tennessee. With offices in Nashville and Memphis, TIP works to investigate and litigate claims of actual innocence on behalf of incarcerated Tennesseans. Since 2019, TIP has exonerated 9 individuals who collectively served 237 years for crimes they did not commit.

Job Responsibilities

As the Director of Development, you will create and execute a comprehensive development plan that supports the mission of the Tennessee Innocence Project. This will include developing an overall strategy in collaboration with leadership, overseeing donor stewardship initiatives, and managing annual events and campaigns. Additional tasks may include:

  • Oversee donor stewardship efforts, including outreach and recognition activities
  • Execute annual events and campaigns to support fundraising goals
  • Develop and maintain relationships with major donors and trustees
  • Lead proposal development and reporting processes
  • Implement a systems approach, including moves management, to cultivate donor relationships
  • Ensure diligent follow-up and communication with colleagues
  • Utilize basic metrics to enhance fundraising strategies and goals
  • Manage the team of Development staff, volunteers and stakeholders

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum of 3 years of development experience, with a broad knowledge of the various aspects of philanthropy. Additional, qualifications and expectations include: ability to transition development program to next level of growth, success in achieving measured goals/KPI, knowledge of donor management software, social media platforms and digital promotion as a holistic approach to development. Ideal candidate will also display: excellent oral and written communications skills, track record of innovation and strategic

Additional Information

Benefits

CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION

This is a Full Time Employee position with the Tennessee Innocence Project. Pay range is $70K – $85K, depending on education and experience. Benefits include, health insurance, dental insurance, short-term/long term disability insurance, 401K, and paid time off.

How to Apply

HOW TO APPLY

Email your resume and cover letter to hayden@tninnocence.org with “Director of Development Opportunity” in the subject.

Details

  • Date Posted: August 22, 2025
  • Type: Full-Time
  • Job Function: Communications / Marketing / PR
  • Service Area: Other
  • Start Date: 10/01/2025
  • Salary Range: $70,000-$85,000
  • Working Hours: 9am-5pm