ORT America (OA) has exclusively retained Sterling Search, Inc. to find its next Regional Development Director, Northeast (RDDN).

Founded in 1880, ORT's mission is not just about education; it's about unlocking the boundless possibilities within every student served. Through increased access to cutting-edge STEAM education and Jewish values, ORT empowers young people—often in underserved communities—to transform their lives and the world around them.

ORT America, (OA), is the largest fundraiser for World ORT's global education network transforming lives through training and education, reaching 200,000 people across 40 countries in more than 40 schools, 2 Universities, and vocational training programs

Driven by a commitment to bridge the gap between aptitude and opportunity, and the passion for tikkun olam (repairing the world), ORT connects students and teachers with the tools and resources they need to expand knowledge, build autonomy, strengthen Jewish identity and thrive in today’s technological world.

A global education network driven by Jewish values and innovation, preparing people and communities for meaningful, self-sufficient futures.

Program Areas

• Student Summer Schools - the latest educational technologies and innovative teaching methods to broaden their horizons and experiences through digital skills academy, ecology summer school or STEM summer school.
• Student Competitions and Awards – Harmatz Award for Social Responsibility, Jewish Animation Competition, STEM Communication Awards & Taub Young Entrepreneurship Program.
• Teacher Programs – investing in educators, providing them with effective tools, professional development and flexibility to innovate.
• International Cooperation – Global Aid - providing technical assistance and training to vulnerable people and developing nations to build a better world.
• Global Citizenship - equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive globally while fostering a sense of Jewish identity and responsibility, encouraging them to be agents of positive change.
• Jewish Experience - enriching Jewish education, identity, and cultural appreciation, ensuring continuity and fostering a deep connection to Jewish tradition, values, and community.

Under the dynamic leadership of CEO Allison Weinger, ORT America is in an exciting period of transformational growth. Weinger comes to ORT America with over a decade of experience in higher education administration at New York University and Teachers College, Columbia University.

ORT raises up to $14 million annually with the United States fundraising efforts divided into 7 regions. The National Board are committed to the success of the organization and have a give/get policy as a reflection of their personal commitment to the mission, vision and impact of the organization. The Board are enthusiastic to ensure the success of this role and participate in networking efforts to engage a younger philanthropic demographic.

Reporting to the CDO, the RDDN will provide strategic leadership and direction while also serving as the primary fundraiser for the northeast region, with a heavy focus on the tri-state area, which typically raises up to $900k through passive fundraising efforts including direct mail campaigns. The RDDN will lead fundraising strategy for the region and carry a personal portfolio of more than 125 donors and new prospects which will include about 30 longstanding major gift supporters from a database that includes several thousand donors who haven’t yet been included in a moves management strategy. The RDDN will focus on expanding the base of support through donor acquisition efforts and instituting a robust moves management plan to engage a broader population of philanthropists with a passion for access to cutting-edge STEAM education and Jewish values.

The new regional director will be joining 6 other regional directors and will have the chance to help shape the future of this renowned organization, increase donor giving, and play a pivotal role in expanding ORT’s reach in the northeast—while enjoying the freedom to try new strategies without the red tape. With a rich legacy and exciting future ahead, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact across the world.

Position Overview

ORT America is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented RDDN to join their fundraising team. This role focuses on identifying new prospects, stewarding an existing portfolio of donors, partnering with the CDO to manage and develop relationships with Jewish Federations in the northeast and implementing major gifts fundraising strategies to support the mission of ORT America.

The ideal candidate will have a proven record of accomplishment in major gifts fundraising, excellent relationship-building skills, and a passion for advancing education as a gateway to success through ORT’s global network of schools and programs.

A significant priority for the northeastern region is the expansion and development of a regional board of lay leaders with influence and affluence, all of whom will serve with the expectation of supporting the organization financially as well as helping to grow the base of support through their own personal and professional networks.

The RDDN will be a self-starter, possess an entrepreneurial spirit, and ready to hit the ground running reinvigorating the existing donor base while focusing on the acquisition of new donors. ORT is poised for momentous growth, and this position will have a tremendous opportunity to be an integral leader in its growth and future.

The Role: Key Responsibilities

• Prospect Identification and Cultivation:

• Identify and research potential major gift prospects within the Northeast region.
• Develop and implement strategies to cultivate relationships with new donors.
• Maintain a robust pipeline of major gift prospect
  

• Major Gifts Fundraising:
  • Develop and execute major gift fundraising strategies to meet annual revenue goals.
    • Solicit major gifts through personalized outreach, including face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and written communications.
    • Prepare and present compelling proposals to prospective donors

      
      

• Donor Stewardship:
  • Ensure timely and appropriate acknowledgment of major gifts.
  • Develop and implement stewardship plans to maintain and deepen relationships with major donors.
  • Provide regular updates to donors on the impact of their contributions.

    
    

• Collaboration and Coordination:
  • Work closely with the Chief Development Officer and other team members to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals.
  • Collaborate with program staff to understand funding needs and develop case statements.
  • Participate in regional and national fundraising events and activities.

    
    

• Reporting and Data Management:

• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and contributions in the donor database.
• Prepare regular reports on fundraising activities and progress towards goals.
• Analyze fundraising data to inform strategy and improve outcomes
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in major gifts fundraising, with a proven record of accomplishment of securing significant donations.
• Strong understanding of fundraising principles and best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Highly organized, with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel within the Northeast region as needed.
• Computer proficiency in advanced functions of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Blackbaud NXT and other programs as needed. Raiser’s Edge experience a plus, familiarity with Office 365 a plus.
• Experience with or knowledge of Jewish Community desirable
  

Every ORT student is encouraged to weigh the issues, seek potential solutions and then actively apply their own unique skills to change lives for the better.

A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered along with professional development and growth opportunities. The budgeted salary range is between $150-175k. The salary will be commensurate with experience.