Hudson Institute seeks a director of donor relations to support Hudson Institute’s development activities, including donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. This is a full-time position based out of Hudson’s Washington, DC office reporting to the vice president of strategic partnerships. Frequent travel is required. 

About Hudson Institute

Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank headquartered in Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting American leadership for a secure, free, and prosperous future. For more than half a century, Hudson Institute has been challenging conventional thinking by developing new ideas and practical solutions to shape critical foreign and domestic policy decisions.

Essential Position Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the vice president of strategic partnerships, the director of donor relations:

• Identifies donor prospects, gathering pertinent information to aid Hudson’s efforts to target its research, analyses, and programs based on the interests of the prospects. 
• Cultivates relationships with donor prospects through personal correspondence, meetings, and events. Proactively considers and pitches ideas on best ways to cultivate prospects.
• Solicits prospects by developing appropriate asks in consultation with other members of Hudson’s development team.
• Develops and executes stewardship strategies that sustain relationships with Hudson’s donors.
• Participates in Hudson Institute development activities, including conference calls, videoconferences, regional events, and major fundraising dinners.
• As needed, engages Hudson’s research staff to assist with donor activities. 
• Stays abreast of Hudson Institute research as well as major headlines in foreign and domestic policy.
• Assists the vice president of strategic partnerships with additional team management responsibilities and other projects and initiatives as needed.

Successful performance in this position involves consistent, high-level fulfillment of each and every duty described above. Additional requirements and/or qualifications for the position include:

• Commitment to Hudson Institute’s mission and supporting the work of the Institute’s experts and staff.
• Five years’ relevant experience in development, preferably in political or nonprofit fundraising.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate prospects and donors to support Hudson Institute and its mission.
• Ability to relate personally to Hudson’s supporters—accomplished individuals who follow policy issues closely.
• Knowledgeable about major developments in US foreign and domestic policy, the economy, elections, and business.
• Ability to work independently with limited oversight and direction, and to serve as a trusted and helpful colleague.
• Proven ability to manage complex problems independently and effectively to accomplish results.
• Excellent communication and comprehension skills, both written and oral, including professional and tactful demeanor.
• Creative and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Commitment to acting with integrity and the utmost professionalism.