Director of Philanthropy & Communications

Make a Difference with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island!

We are looking for a Director of Philanthropy & Communications who is passionate about advancing our mission to help people in need. In this role, you will lead our fundraising and communication efforts, build relationships, and help ensure we have the resources to continue creating meaningful impact.  If you are someone with demonstrated success in fundraising who enjoys connecting with people, sharing stories, and developing thoughtful strategies to support growth, we would love to hear from you.  

Reporting to the Executive Director, The Director of Philanthropy & Communications is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that strengthen community engagement, enhance organizational visibility, and secure financial support to advance the Society’s short and long-term financial goals.

Society of Saint Vincent de Paul offers:

Competitive salary reviewed annually

Employer paid health and dental coverage and an employer matched Pension Plan

Support for continuing professional development

Paid time-off and 14 stats including Easter Monday, Christmas Eve, and Boxing Day

A socially responsible and inclusive culture in a successful community enterprise

What You’ll Do

   Strategic Leadership

Develop and implement annual fundraising and communications plans aligned with the strategic plan.

Operate within an approved budget and monitor expenses.

Oversee donor database management to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Provide leadership and support to a small team and volunteers.

   Fundraising & Donor Development

Design and execute fundraising strategies, including:

Annual Giving campaigns

Major Gifts cultivation

Planned Giving initiatives

Research and identify new prospects; cultivate and steward donors.

Write grant applications and fundraising proposals, complete follow-up reports.

Build partnerships with funders, donors, sponsors, and community organizations.

Plan and oversee fundraising events with staff, volunteers and third parties.

   Communications & Brand Management

Create and implement an annual communications plan to increase brand awareness.

Manage all aspects of communications and outreach, including:

Website and social media presence

Promotional materials (print and digital)

Media engagement (press releases, interviews, public service announcements)

Document success stories and lead development of quarterly newsletter and the annual Impact Report.

Ensure adherence to brand standards across the organization.

   Board and Community Engagement

Work closely with the Board of Directors and relevant board committees to align fundraising and communications strategies with organizational priorities.

Provide regular updates and reports to the Board on fundraising progress, communications initiatives, and impact.

Support board-led fundraising efforts and assist with donor engagement activities.

Our ideal Director of Philanthropy & Communications will bring the following:

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, business, public relations, or a related field or a combination of education and experience may be considered.

CFRE designation is an asset

Certificate in Fundraising, Diploma in Fundraising, or similar qualifications considered an asset.

A minimum of 8 years fundraising, supplemented with communications and/or marketing,

Experience in basic graphic design and social media.

Proven track record of developing fundraising plans and securing gifts

These Skills and Abilities will help you thrive:

Exceptional communication, both written and verbal

Strong collaborative and relationship building skills

Knowledge of communication and marketing principles and best practice.

Adept at managing tasks, planning events and balancing priorities.

Ability to prioritize and plan effectively.

Additional Requirements

A criminal record check including a Ministry of Justice Vulnerable Sector Clearance Letter is required prior to hiring

This role requires a valid driver’s license and the ability to use a personal vehicle for work‑related purposes

About Society of Saint Vincent de Paul:

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Vancouver Island has been supporting people in need on Vancouver Island since 1916. Focused on impacting the lives of people affected by poverty, the Society offers emergency relief services while maintaining a focus and commitment to addressing the root causes that contribute to poverty in our communities. Through a variety of programs, the Society provides support through affordable housing, a food pantry, home visit program, day program for persons with developmental disabilities and thrift stores providing clothing and household items to those in need, to name a few.

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive, fair, equitable and diverse culture and look forward to welcoming applicants with their unique strengths to our team.