Development Officer

Position Title: Development Officer, JWest JWest Now
Reports to: Executive Director, JWest

About JWest

The Jewish community of Greater Vancouver is undertaking the largest communal project in its history — JWest. This visionary initiative includes the rejuvenation of the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver, expansion and enhancement of King David High School, a new home for the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre, and the development of two residential towers, including below-market housing.

Position Summary

The Development Officer plays a critical role in stewarding JWest’s donors and ensuring that donor engagement is thoughtful, accurate, and well-documented. The position combines relationship management, data integrity, and creative communication, with a special focus on stewardship rather than solicitation.

This individual will manage donor records, acknowledge gifts promptly, and help build a meaningful donor experience through tailored communications, stewardship reports, thank-you letters, and recognition. The Development Officer also supports the Executive Director in stewarding lead donors and contributes to the planning and execution of the public phase of the capital campaign.

This role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of fundraising best practices — particularly in managing long-term donor relationships as pledges are fulfilled over several years. As the project progresses, the responsibilities of this role will evolve to meet the campaign's ongoing needs.

Key Responsibilities

Duties may vary depending on project phase.

Maintain an accurate and up-to-date donor database

Work with the Executive Director and Director of Finance to ensure donors receive receipts and acknowledgments promptly

Design and deliver personalized thank-you notes and meaningful donor communications

Develop and implement a stewardship program that keeps donors informed and engaged

Lead the production of the monthly donor e-newsletter

Maintain and update the donor recognition list; communicate changes to dedicated gift status

Prepare stewardship reports for major donors

Draft proposals for foundations, corporations, and government

Update website and/or social media channels as needed

Assist with the creation of gift announcements, videos, or other recognition content

Draft new or revised gift agreements in coordination with donors and legal teams

Support the public campaign by assisting with donor research and data management

Organize and schedule meetings with staff, partners, Foundation Board, and volunteers

Prepare and distribute meeting agendas and minutes

Respond to donor inquiries and phone calls with accurate campaign knowledge

Qualifications and Skills

Commitment to ethical fundraising practices and confidentiality of donor information

Experience in major gifts fundraising and donor relations

Familiarity with donor databases/CRM systems and ability to manage donor data independently

Exceptional written communication skills; able to craft compelling proposals, reports, and donor communications

Proven ability to create personal and impactful donor experiences

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with sound judgment and discretion

Experience coordinating events (planning, budgeting, invitations, staffing, etc.) is an asset

Knowledge of the Vancouver Jewish community is an asset

Collaborative team player with a collegial and professional demeanor

Benefits and Compensation

Employment type: Permanent, Full time (35 hours/week)

Location: Must work in the Vancouver office (950 W. 41st Avenue) three days per week

Level: Intermediate, reports to the Executive Director

Salary Range: $66,351 - $77,052 commensurate with experience

Benefits: Generous extended medical and dental benefits package, paid vacation and sick days, matching group RRSP contributions, discounted JCC membership and free parking.

To Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit to Emily Pritchard at epritchard@jwestnow.com. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview and the position will continue to be posted until filled.