Director of Donor Development & Relations: Library Foundation of Hancock County
Director of Donor Development & Relations
Library Foundation of Hancock County
(Independent Contract Based Position)
About the Library Foundation of Hancock County
The Library Foundation of Hancock County is a growing 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening the Hancock County Library System. The Foundation provides funding that creates the margin of excellence for one of the most innovative and award winning library systems in Mississippi.
This is an exciting time to join the Foundation as we continue building stronger community partnerships, expanding programming, increasing philanthropic support, and creating new opportunities for investment in our libraries and communities.
We are looking for someone who is outgoing, creative, community minded, organized, relationship driven, and excited about helping grow something meaningful. The ideal candidate is someone who loves people, enjoys being active in the community, can build genuine relationships, and is excited to help connect individuals, businesses, and organizations to the mission of the library.
Core Responsibilities
The Director of Donor Development & Relations will report directly to the President of the Library Foundation of Hancock County and work closely with the Executive Director of the Hancock County Library System.
- Donor Stewardship (Engagement, Fundraising, and Data Management)
- Develop and implement structured ways for the community to give to the Library Foundation.
- Develop systems and processes for donor recognition and stewardship.
- Maintain donor records and tracking systems.
- Oversee the publication of the quarterly newsletter, The Connection.
- Event Coordination
- Holiday Tree Gala: serve as the lead coordinator for the Library Foundation’s annual Holiday Tree Gala. Coordinate sponsorship development, donor engagement, and event fundraising strategies. Collaborate with volunteers, staff, and Foundation leadership on event planning and execution for the Gala.
- Lead donor stewardship and follow up efforts connected to all events.
- Grant Writing
- Pursue grants to support the Hancock County Library System.
- Second Line Used Bookstore Management
- Oversee the daily operations, vision, growth, and community engagement of the Second
Line Used Bookstore.
- Coordinate and lead bookstore volunteers.
- Develop and implement creative ideas to expand bookstore visibility, engagement, and revenue generation.
Qualifications & Personal Attributes
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong relationship building and interpersonal skills.
- An outgoing and welcoming personality.
- Confidence engaging with community leaders, donors, sponsors, and volunteers.
- Strong communication and storytelling abilities.
- Creativity, initiative, and strategic thinking.
- Ability to organize projects, events, and multiple priorities.
- High emotional intelligence and professionalism.
- Passion for libraries, literacy, education, and community engagement.
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating with staff, volunteers, and Foundation leadership.
- Comfort participating in networking events, Chamber events, and community activities.
Experience in fundraising, nonprofit development, sponsorship sales, marketing, volunteer coordination, retail management, community engagement, or relationship management is preferred.
Position Structure & Compensation
- Contract for service and compensation will be based on experience and qualifications.
- The Contractor is an independent contractor, not an employee. The contractor is responsible for all federal and Mississippi tax obligations.
- Some evening and weekend work will be required for events, networking, and community engagement.
Performance Goals
- Increase donor donations to at least $60,000 annually. These donations do not include donations from the Cassis and Tracy Foundations.
- Increase annual net income of Second Line Used Bookstore to $_____________ (to be determined by 12/31/26).