Who We Are

Girl Scouts create the world they want to live in and strive to make it better every single day. They explore their strengths, take on new challenges, and can always be themselves, regardless of background or ability. Working for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast (GSWISE) is much more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to bring your talent, passion, and perspective to a girl-centric, mission driven organization. We are seeking individuals committed to making a difference and are enthusiastic team players who want to join an organization with a proud history and a growing future. Joining our staff means working to your full potential in a dynamic and diverse environment that strives for equity for all as we deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

Position Summary

The Vice President (VP) of Philanthropy is a visionary and inclusive leader responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to advance GSWISE’s mission. Reporting directly to the COO, the VP of Philanthropy will lead a team of three, cultivate relationships with major donors, and oversee diverse funding streams, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, annual campaigns, and special events.

This key role will champion equity and anti-racism principles while fostering a culture of philanthropy. The VP of Philanthropy will drive strategic fundraising initiatives, manage a portfolio of high-value donors, and empower the Philanthropy Team to meet and exceed revenue goals.

What You’ll Do

• Fundraising Strategy and Leadership: The VP of Philanthropy will develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan aligned with GSWISE’s strategic goals. This role is responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gifts, securing contributions of $1.5 million from individuals, corporations, and foundations, with clear fundraising targets. The VP will lead and execute fundraising campaigns, including annual giving, planned giving, capital campaigns, and donor stewardship programs. Additionally, they will oversee donor systems and data management to ensure accurate tracking, reporting, and strategy refinement. Close collaboration with the COO & CEO, Board of Directors, and Fund Development Committee is essential to align fundraising priorities and strategies. The VP will also work with COO to establish goals and activities for all fundraising efforts using best practices and maintain alignment with Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) on national fund development initiatives, campaigns, and donor engagement strategies.
• Equity and Community Engagement: The VP will integrate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Racial Justice (DEIRJ) principles into all fundraising and outreach efforts to ensure inclusive funding, donor engagement and recognition. They will be a visible leader and advocate in the community, representing GSWISE at events and building strategic partnerships. This role requires fostering strong relationships with donors, community leaders, and organizations that align with GSWISE’s mission to enhance community impact and broaden the organization’s reach.
• Operational Excellence: To drive efficiency and effectiveness, the VP will set and monitor key performance indicators to measure fundraising progress, adapt strategies accordingly and be responsible for preparing and managing the Philanthropy Team’s budget, ensuring alignment with financial goals. Collaboration with Marketing and Communications will be critical to develop compelling materials that inspire donor support. Additionally, the VP will ensure compliance with fundraising regulations and industry best practices to maintain transparency and trust with stakeholders.
• Talent Management and Development: As part of the Leadership Team, the VP will have oversight responsibilities while working with all constituents throughout GSWISE, ensuring that fundraising efforts are executed effectively and in alignment with organizational goals. This role includes leading and managing all aspects of the council’s primary philanthropic funding sources and partnerships, including United Way, GSWISE signature events, major corporate and individual donors, and the annual giving program. The VP will manage and retain an engaged high-performing fund development team of three focused on donor centered services and career growth. Furthermore, the VP will train and support volunteers and staff in their fundraising roles, ensuring efforts are aligned with the council’s strategic objectives.
• Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: This position plays a critical role in advancing the mission of GSWISE by driving philanthropic efforts, strengthening donor relationships, and ensuring financial sustainability for the organization’s long-term success. Building and sustaining relationships with major donors, corporate partners, and foundations is a critical component of this role. The VP will oversee all aspects of grant writing and submission, corporate and foundation donor correspondence, annual reports, and donor communications. Utilizing donor management systems and research data, they will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward prospects for philanthropic giving, ensuring a structured donor pipeline. By engaging donors in meaningful, long-term partnerships with the council, the VP will work to increase philanthropic revenue and secure the organization’s financial sustainability.

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• Free Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with eligibility employer contributions
• Employee Assistance Program
• Generous Paid  Time Off (PTO)
• Holidays observed with pay: Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day (and the Friday after), and all business days from December 24 through January 1
• Mileage reimbursement
• Plus more!

Who You Are and Keys to Success

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive fundraising leadership experience, with a track record of securing major gifts and leading successful campaigns, or Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree and/or CFRE certification 
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, adept at building trust, influencing stakeholders, and driving change across all organizational levels.
• High emotional intelligence, capable of navigating complex organizational dynamics and sensitive issues with empathy and professionalism.
• Proven ability to lead diverse teams and build a culture of inclusivity and collaboration.
• Experience in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations is preferred.
• Highly accountable with strong organizational skills, capable of managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines.
• Strong relationship management skills, capable of engaging diverse stakeholders and inspiring donor loyalty.
• Proficiency with donor management systems (i.e., DonorPerfect) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Occasional travel within the region is required. A valid driver’s license and use of your own vehicle are preferred. If so, you must comply with the council’s automobile insurance policy limits and have a driving record that meets the requirements of the council’s business auto insurance carrier. If you are unable to drive, a transportation plan must be submitted and approved prior to an official offer being made.
• Open to work an occasionally flexible schedule, including evening and weekend hours.
• Willingness to subscribe to the philosophy of the Girl Scout program and joining as a Girl Scout member which includes paying a membership fee, either annually or as a life-time member.
• We are Girl Scouts! Although work is performed in a normal indoor environment there will be times that will require exposure to the outdoors. Due to the cyclical nature of Girl Scouts' business and the need for operational efficiency, employees may occasionally be asked to assist with tasks in other departments. This may include, but is not limited to, areas such as programming, cookie distribution, and other related activities.
• Employees must occasionally sit and/or stand for extended periods and operate office equipment manually. The employee will routinely lift 15 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Application Process: This is an exciting opportunity to work with a dynamic mission-focused team passionate about making a difference. To apply for the VP of Philanthropy position, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and addressing how your experience aligns with Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast's commitment to our mission. 

EEO & Anti-Racist Statement

The Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast (GSWISE) has a vision for a deeply inclusive membership, staff, and volunteers. To foster a culture of belonging while providing equitable service delivery above and beyond Equal Opportunity requirements, GSWISE candidates must be committed to cultural competency growth and work within diverse teams. Our Girl Scout Law encourages us to seek racial equity for everyone and do our part to dismantle systemic racism. GSWISE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)  

Classification: Full Time, Exempt  

Direct Reports: Philanthropy Team (3) two full-time and one part-time