Deputy Director, Mission Advancement – State

Best Buddies International

. Standardize and execute statewide external communication, engagement, and stewardship efforts .

Posted 11/11/2026full-timePeoria • Illinois • United StatesLead💰 $52,000 - $57,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in fundraising administration, external communications, and event logistics, with a strong focus on relationship building and community engagement. Proficient in managing digital platforms and creating compelling marketing materials to enhance organizational visibility and donor stewardship.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Fundraising AdministrationExternal CommunicationsProject ManagementDigital MarketingVolunteer Engagement

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Fundraising PlanningPersuasive WritingPhotographyVideo EditingDatabase ManagementMicrosoft Office ProficiencyEmail MarketingSocial Media ManagementEvent LogisticsGrant Communications

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailProblem SolvingMultitaskingAdaptabilityRelationship Building

Tools & Technologies

Content Management SystemsSalesforceGivesmartSummaEmail Marketing Software

Industry Keywords

Nonprofit CommunicationsCommunity EngagementDonor StewardshipPublic Awareness StrategyVolunteer Training

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Standardize and execute statewide external communication, engagement, and stewardship efforts
Create a strategy for statewide logistical support to fundraising and fund development initiatives, including special events, grants, and donor development
Support statewide planning and standardization of program events and volunteer training, focusing on logistics and processes
Ensure program participants and staff are integrated into regional fundraising and awareness efforts
Collaborate with program staff to ensure grant communications highlight local program efforts
Develop and facilitate statewide leadership training materials for volunteers
Develop materials for expansion of programs and engagement of participants, parents, employers, and others
Build a growth pipeline through contacts with schools, community groups, and corporations
Support special event logistics, including publicity, event experience, database reports, communications, volunteer engagement, show flow, and auction preparation
Support local fundraising activities, including foundation and corporate giving, individual giving, major gifts, special events, annual giving, and alumni/parent relations
Identify, cultivate, and develop volunteers involved in solicitation
Develop and manage donor stewardship processes, including gift processing and thank-you letters
Secure local and statewide monetary and in-kind event sponsorships
Write solicitation copy, sponsorship decks, event marketing materials, and program resources
Oversee Giving Tuesday and End of Year Appeal fund development campaigns
Maintain standardized calendars and timelines for programmatic and event activations
Develop and implement a regional public awareness strategy
Build Best Buddies’ statewide presence through public speaking, community involvement, public service announcements, social media campaigns, news releases, and other media initiatives
Oversee local content and image organization for state website updates
Oversee local annual reports and e-newsletters
Develop and manage annual communications and marketing plans using email, social media, and direct mail
Increase social media followers and virtual community engagement
Build and maintain relationships with local media markets
Develop print and electronic promotional materials, event materials, decks, and slideshow presentations
Take and edit photos, record video, capture testimonials, and livestream events
Ensure donors and sponsors are highlighted on event, state, and national websites and in state e-newsletters
Stay current with nonprofit communications and marketing trends and best practices
Maintain communication with the Area Director through timely reports and other requested information
Oversee accurate processing of revenue and invoices
Maintain accurate donation records and donor information through Raisers Edge

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum 2-4 years’ relevant experience in general fundraising administration and planning and external communications including email, social media, and mail
Strong project/time management skills, including planning, analysis, attention to detail, problem solving, and multitasking
Strong persuasive writing and presentation skills
Ability to articulate the mission, goals, and activities of Best Buddies with passion and enthusiasm
Proficiency managing multiple digital platforms, including content management systems, email marketing software, and social media tools
Basic photography and photo editing skills
Ability to shoot and edit video using a digital camera and video editing software
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office
Familiarity with database management systems, including Salesforce, Givesmart, and Summa
Initiative, dependability, drive for results, and self-assessment skills
Adaptability and ability to develop and balance multiple relationships
Comfortable engaging with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and working with them in a supporting role
Comfortable with frequent travel throughout the state
Ability to use a personal cell phone
Ability to work evenings and weekends as necessary
Must be able to obtain results from a variety of people

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive and generous benefits program
Financial security benefits
Health and wellness benefits
Time off