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03 Jun We’re Looking for an Advancement Director!

Posted at 08:27h in Careers by

Just Buffalo Literary Center’s mission is to create and strengthen communities through the literary arts. For 50 years, we have brought the world’s greatest writers to Buffalo, hosted author events, and supported the development of young writers.

Why JBLC?

Just Buffalo Literary Center’s programs—including the BABEL Author series, Silo City Reading Series, Just Buffalo Writing Center, and LIT CITY public art initiatives—are ranked among the best in the nation. We are committed to inspiring readers & writers of all ages and walks-of-life through the power of the literary arts. You will be part of meaningful work integral to the communities we serve.

Summary of Position

The Advancement Director is a highly skilled and results-oriented professional responsible for the creation and implementation of an annual fundraising strategy in support of Just Buffalo Literary Center’s mission and long-term sustainability. This position, which reports to the Executive & Artistic Director, is both strategic and hands-on with a focus on strengthening donor cultivation and stewardship, individual and major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and planned giving.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Work collaboratively with the Executive & Artistic Director, Board of Directors, Advancement Committee, and other key staff members to foster a culture of philanthropy
  • Strengthen systems for donor cultivation, stewardship, gift processing, acknowledgements, and fundraising communications to ensure stakeholders feel meaningfully connected to Just Buffalo’s mission, programs, and community presence
  • Coordinate ongoing donor engagement and marketing materials including two annual mailings, personal interactions, calls, and other meaningful connections to ensure timely and consistent messaging and recognition
  • Develop sponsorship materials and fulfillment plans for corporate and community partners
  • Maintain accurate donor records and contact notes in CRM database
  • Work closely with staff to ensure cultivation events are well-planned, mission-aligned, financially responsible, and welcoming
  • Serve as a key staff partner in helping to identify opportunities to increase revenues and expand outreach as well as for Board engagement in fundraising and ambassadorship
  • Represent JBLC as a professional with community members of all ages & lived experiences
  • Excellent fundraising, development, and relationship-building skills
    Bachelor’s (or equivalent professional experience) in business, marketing, non-profit administration, communications, or related field
  • Superior oral and written communication skills
  • Dynamic leader and creative problem-solver who is self-motivated to take initiative when working independently and/or collaboratively with a small, flexible team
  • Strong project management and organizational skills with a keen attention to detail and the ability to balance multiple timelines
  • Experience planning fundraising events, cultivation gatherings, sponsorship experiences and/or public-facing community receptions
  • Ability to build warm, respectful rapport with donors, Board members, colleagues, and community partners
  • Passion for the role that literature plays in civic and community life
  • Deep commitment to fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility
  • Familiarity with WNY’s cultural, philanthropic, educational or nonprofit ecosystems is a plus
  • Experience with donor databases and/or CRM systems (currently using Raiser’s Edge) helpful but not required
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite

Work Schedule

Hybrid model, primarily Monday thru Thursday with occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Physical Demands

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer (repetitive motion); must be able to lift and move up to 20 pounds at times.

Salary & Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position (32 hours per week). Salary range is $70,000–$75,000 commensurate with experience. Benefits include:

  • 32-hour hybrid work week with flexible scheduling
  • 2 weeks of paid vacation + 13 paid holidays + 2 additional weeks when the office closes
  • Health insurance options, including dental coverage, HSA, and accrued sick time
  • SIMPLE retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Cell phone and/or laptop for business use

How to Apply

To apply for this position, submit the following as a single PDF by Monday, June 22, 2026 to submissions@justbuffalo.org:

  • A cover letter
  • Your CV/résumé
  • Three (3) professional references
  • Optional: Candidates may also include one work sample, such as a donor letter, sponsorship proposal, campaign email, etc.

Please include “Advancement Director” in subject line. Interviews will begin the week of July 6. The goal start time for this position is mid-August 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. (No phone calls, please.)

Not sure you meet every single requirement? 
We are dedicated to building a diverse staff that reflects our mission and the communities we serve. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. Just Buffalo strongly encourages applications from people who have been historically underrepresented in nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and the literary arts.

Just Buffalo Literary Center is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity, practices inclusion, and works to advance equity.