About the Mississippi Center for Public Policy
The Mississippi Center for Public Policy (MCPP) is an award-winning think tank dedicated to transforming bold ideas into policies that drive real change across our state. Mississippi has long been ranked last among the 50 U.S. states—but we’re here to change that. Through free-market solutions, we champion four core priorities: Education Reform, Tax Reform, Red Tape Reduction, and resisting DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) ideology.
A small team, MCPP punches above its weight. We’ve led efforts to eliminate the state income tax, expand school choice, and secure major free-market victories. As a result, Mississippi is on the rise—attracting investment and experiencing remarkable growth. To fuel this momentum, we’re seeking a dynamic Chief Development Officer to lead our fundraising efforts and secure the resources needed to amplify our impact.
Why Join Us?
At MCPP, you’ll join a passionate team shaping Mississippi’s future. As Chief Development Officer, you’ll play a pivotal role in growing our organization and ensuring its long-term success. This is your chance to make a lasting difference by advancing policies that promote freedom and opportunity for all Mississippians.
Role Overview
Reporting directly to the CEO, the Chief Development Officer will spearhead MCPP’s fundraising strategy, expanding our donor base and securing financial support from individuals, foundations, and corporations. This role is critical to sustaining our growth and maximizing our influence.
This role requires a strong physical presence in Mississippi. While it is not mandatory to work from MCPP’s Jackson-based office every day, the ideal candidate will be based in Mississippi—or in a neighboring state such as Louisiana or Tennessee with the willingness and ability to frequently travel throughout Mississippi. Regular in-person time with our team is important, so candidates should expect to be in the office at 5 days a month and in Mississippi nearly full-time.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising and Resource Mobilization
- Fundraising Strategy: Design and execute a robust fundraising plan—encompassing major gifts, annual giving, and direct mail—aiming to double annual revenue within three years. Target 60% of donor funds from in-state sources (including 10% via direct mail) and 40% from out-of-state foundations eager to back our mission.
- Foundations and Grants: Identify and pursue foundation partnerships, collaborating with our grant writer to craft compelling proposals while building relationships with key foundation leaders.
- Major Gifts: Manage a portfolio of 100–150 major donors, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding their support through face-to-face meetings and personalized engagement. Turn prospects into committed supporters by delivering persuasive pitches and nurturing long-term relationships.
- Leadership Support: Partner with the CEO and staff to refine development strategies for the board and her major donor portfolio.
- Prospecting: Research and prioritize high-potential donors capable of giving $25,000+, leveraging MCPP’s existing data resources for smarter outreach.
- Data Management: Keep meticulous donor records, track fundraising progress, and use data strategically to boost results.
- Events: Work with the team to plan donor engagement events, integrating fundraising into our Speaker Series and other initiatives.
- Policy-to-Funding Pipeline: Leverage MCPP’s policy work to create bold, compelling major gift proposals that win significant support.
Board Engagement
- Collaborate with the CEO and Board to craft a development strategy that inspires current donors, attracts new prospects, and secures funding through direct mail and foundation partnerships.
- Equip Board Members with tools and resources to advocate effectively for MCPP.
- Provide regular fundraising updates to the Board, highlighting opportunities for their involvement.
Donor Engagement and Reporting
- Bring consistency and precision to fundraising efforts, tapping into MCPP’s rich data and contact resources.
- Research and qualify potential donors—individuals and foundations—using wealth screening to tailor perfectly pitched asks.
- Travel statewide to build strong donor relationships, proactively scheduling meetings and converting opportunities into action.
- Write engaging correspondence to keep donors connected and informed about our work.
- Develop a year-round communications plan to inspire and excite donors with updates on MCPP’s impact.
- Track progress with detailed monthly reports and maintain accurate CRM records.
- Create tailored content—email updates, grant proposals, donor letters, event recaps, and marketing materials—for diverse audiences.
Qualifications and Experience
Experience
- 5–8 years of fundraising experience in public policy, government relations, nonprofit and/or academic fundraising would be an advantage.
- Experience working with Board Members to engage their networks and drive fundraising initiatives.
- Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including high-level government officials and philanthropic leaders.
Skills
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a knack for crafting persuasive proposals and presentations.
- Strong project management abilities, thriving in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
- Proficiency with donor research tools, CRM systems, and fundraising analytics.
Personal Attributes
- Deeply committed to conservative policy and turning these ideas into law.
- Self-starter with a collaborative spirit, strategic mindset, and relentless focus on results.
Compensation
The projected salary range for this role is $90,000-110,000, contingent upon the specific skills and experience of the selected candidate.
How to Apply
To apply, qualified individuals should submit the following application materials in one PDF document:
- Cover letter including:
- An introductory paragraph describing three distinct reasons you are drawn to MCPP’s mission and how you came to those beliefs. Be sure to include at least one specific issue, case, or policy area that resonates with you.
- Salary requirements
- Resume
Applications should be submitted to Talent Market via this link: talentmarket.org/apply-for-your-dream-job/.
Questions can be directed to Stephanie Keaveney, Senior Manager of Outreach at Talent Market, who is managing the search process: [email protected].
There is no application deadline for this position. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. This job will remain posted on our site until it is filled.
While we thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, we are only able to contact those to whom we can offer an interview. Only direct applications will be considered. No phone calls, please.
Talent Market is a nonprofit entity dedicated to promoting liberty by helping free-market nonprofits identify talent for critical roles. We provide consulting and recruiting services at no cost to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations that clearly and directly focus on advancing the principles of economic freedom, free enterprise, free trade, free speech, property rights, rule of law, and limited regulation.
