Job Position

Scouting America is seeking an exceptional Philanthropic Advisor-I (Foundation Relations) who excels at building strong, trust-based relationships to advance our mission. The Philanthropic Advisor-I (Foundation Relations) is responsible for developing and managing high-value relationships with foundations and major gift prospects capable of making leadership gifts of $500,000 or more.

This role focuses on identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of major prospects/foundations through personalized engagement, strategic planning, and consistent follow-through. Working in close partnership with Council leadership and National staff, the Advisor-I provides fundraising counsel, aligns donor interests with Scouting America’s strategic priorities, and executes strategies that expand philanthropic capacity at both the national and local levels.

The position requires frequent travel for donor engagement, disciplined use of the CRM for portfolio management and reporting, and active participation in national events and stewardship activities that advance Scouting America’s mission and fundraising goals. Must be able to travel and hold a valid driver’s license. This position reports to the Manager of Philanthropy.

• Personally cultivates and solicits a minimum of 15-30 prospective donors from a portfolio of 50-80 prospects annually.
• Develops relationships with foundations with the capacity to award grants at a minimum of $500,000 in support of Scouting America. Identified as either an independent prospect for Scouting America or as part of strategic planning or working with key Council leaders.
• Provides advice and counsel to leaders both at the National Office and to Council partners within assigned territory. Executes strategic plans and programs that increase philanthropy to Scouting America either through outright gifts, pledges or planned gifts. Actively participates in the recognition and stewardship strategy of major donors.
• Prepares reports and plans for follow-up for the relationship cultivation strategy of major donors. Regularly interfaces with management, senior management and leaders. Provides advice and counsel to the organization in areas of expertise.
• Tracks interactions with prospects through effective use of the Development CRM database.
• Provides weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports and metrics to be shared with management as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of: Strong knowledge of the philanthropic sector, as well as the various laws and regulations affecting them. Business acumen and strategic planning. Working knowledge and experience in securing Major Gifts, Annual Giving, and Planned Giving.
• Skill in: Proficient writing, editing and proofreading skills with the ability to gather and organize information appropriately. Excellent customer service and communication skills (listening, interpersonal, oral, and written).  A high degree of professionalism, confidence and flexibility that allows the incumbent to work collaboratively and effectively with clients and colleagues of diverse backgrounds.  Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and the ability to effectively utilize proprietary software.  Compelling communication; building partnerships; and building customer loyalty. Strong planning and implementation skills; research and synthesizing abilities. High level of personal and professional integrity and ethics.
• Ability to: Energize the organization. Excellent ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple competing assignments and responsibilities. Excellent ability to work well in a team environment.  Ability to develop and maintain a good working relationship with staff, members of the community, elected officials, the media, colleagues in other foundations, and members of the nonprofit sector.

Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in major/principal gift fundraising and prospect management, business development or related field.
• Must pass a criminal history background check.

Interest in philanthropy and the non-profit community.

Scouting America is an equal-opportunity employer. Benefits include major medical, prescription coverage, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, accidental death, and a Match Savings plan. We also offer a generous PTO policy and Scouting America holiday observances.

Since 1910, Scouting America has encouraged personal growth by teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination. Scouting America promotes a culture where youth, volunteers, and employees feel a sense of belonging-where every person feels respected and valued. We welcome families of all backgrounds to help prepare young people to serve as successful members and leaders of our nation’s diverse communities. Join us and help us mold the future leaders of America.