Director of Development in Grand Rapids, Michigan at SpringHill Experiences

Who We Are

SpringHill is a youth outreach and discipleship ministry that uses immersive experiences to impact lives and prepare the next generation of Christ-centered leaders. We build camp programs and retreats that give youth and adults the time and space to reconnect with God through fun, worship, and quiet reflection. Our team is community focused and committed to cheering each other on in our work and personal faith.

The Role

As Director of Development, you will advance SpringHill's mission by cultivating relationships with donors and securing the financial resources that fuel our impact. Your primary focus will be securing major gifts ($25,000+), nurturing mid-level donors ($5,000–$25,000), identifying new prospective partners who align with our vision, and developing strategies to attract new and younger donors. You'll set the strategic direction for development efforts while working closely with leadership to grow and sustain our ministry.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• You will lead and support the Development Team, including the campaign manager, grant writers, and annual appeal writers, ensuring a collaborative and results-driven culture.
• You will develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, incorporating yearly giving, capital campaigns, and major donor engagement.
• You will partner with the SpringHill Leadership Team to expand the reach and impact of our ministry.

Fundraising & Relationship Building

• Proactively identify and engage new donors who are passionate about SpringHill's mission.
• Build and strengthen relationships with individual donors, foundations, and key stakeholders.
• Personally solicit and secure major gifts of $25,000+ while developing mid-level donor relationships.
• Manage a donor portfolio of approximately 100+ relationships with an annual fundraising goal of $500K+.

Engagement & Representation

• Serve as a key ambassador for SpringHill, sharing its mission and impact through compelling storytelling and meaningful interactions.
• Represent SpringHill at donor meetings, special events, camp activities, staff gatherings, and fundraising initiatives.
• Follow up with donor referrals and steward long-term relationships.

Other Duties

• Perform additional responsibilities as the President assigns to further the organization's mission.

What We Are Looking For

• A deep commitment to SpringHill's mission and ministry philosophy.
• Bachelor's degree in business, communications, or a related field.
• Proven relationship-building skills with a heart for generosity and stewardship.
• Strong emotional intelligence and the ability to engage donors with authenticity and passion.
• Proficiency in basic computer and CRM/database skills for donor management.
• Demonstrated success in securing major gifts or closing high-value sales transactions.
• A proactive, highly motivated self-starter who thrives in a goal-driven environment.
• Preference will be given for prior experience with SpringHill or a strong understanding of its impact.

Where You'll Go

At SpringHill, we take our mission into the world daily! This role requires regular communication and travel to engage with donors, share the SpringHill story, and cultivate long-term relationships, ensuring our community remains connected and invested in our work. As a representative of SpringHill, you can expect to travel approximately 1-2 days per week, both locally and occasionally overnight.