Research And Development Director Jobs in Missouri

Choices for People provides year-round support and instructional programs designed to aid individuals with disabilities in developing essential life skills. These skills promote inclusion, independence, self-sufficiency, and productivity; and aim to maximize the individual’s quality of life in the least restrictive environment possible.

Choices for People assists in individual goal-oriented program planning, and acts as an advocate in the community through the removal of attitudinal, architectural, environmental, financial, employment-related, communicational, transportation, and other barriers.

Position Summary 

The Development Director provides strategic leadership and oversight of the organization’s resource development, marketing, and fundraising initiatives. Reporting directly to the Chief Strategy Officer, this role is responsible for elevating the organization's visibility through the development and execution of comprehensive development strategies. The Development Director will oversee public communications, donor engagement, events management, and community outreach, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities. This position is also instrumental in driving collaboration across departments, enhancing interdepartmental coordination, and supporting long-term organizational growth.

 Duties and Responsibilities (not all inclusive):

• Coordinate and execute development initiatives including fundraising campaigns, donor cultivation, and event promotion 
• Lead planning and execution of internal and external events in collaboration with executive leadership and the Choices Council Events Committee 
• Research and recommend grant opportunities, working collaboratively with grant writers to support funding objectives 
• Manage donor and contact databases to ensure accurate communication and engagement tracking 
• Develop and oversee strategic marketing and communication plans to strengthen the organization’s brand and public presence 
• Serve as the lead authority on brand identity and ensure consistency across all platforms, print, and digital materials 
• Plan, organize, and lead community engagement initiatives to promote awareness and strengthen partnerships 
• Identify internal representatives to attend events and speaking engagements in alignment with brand and messaging strategy 
• Partner with internal departments to align marketing, communications, and development strategies across the organization 
• Monitor and enhance the organization’s digital footprint including website management and social media strategy 
• Oversee event volunteer coordination, including recruitment, engagement, and recognition efforts 
• Contribute to organizational strategic planning goals and initiatives Demonstrate strong time management, initiative, and self-direction in meeting deadlines and project leadership 
• Assist with the development and management of the department’s budget in collaboration with finance staff, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with organizational goals 
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends, regulatory changes, agency compliance requirements, etc. 

Education and/or Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or related field preferred 
• At least three years of leadership experience in marketing, development, or nonprofit management preferred 
• Experience with brand management, digital marketing, and strategic communications preferred 
• Experience working with nonprofits, grant writing, or fundraising campaigns preferred 

 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 
• Excellent project management and organizational skills with attention to detail 
• Proficiency in digital marketing tools, content creation, CRM systems, and Microsoft 365 
• Ability to develop rapport and coordinate with other divisions, vendors, key stakeholders, etc. 
• Willingness to maintain confidentiality of private, sensitive, or protected information 
• Understanding of donor engagement and volunteer coordination best practices 
• Ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and support strategic organizational goals 
• Knowledge of grant research and nonprofit funding sources a plus 
• Creative thinker with the ability to innovate while remaining mission-focused 
• Commitment to the organization’s mission and working with a diverse population

 Physical Demands: 

• Stand and/or sit for prolonged periods 
• Prolonged periods of talking, typing, and looking at computer screens 

Comments:

Failure to provide official transcript(s) or other required verification may result in the withdrawal of the job offer.

All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check and a drug screen.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy and intent of Choices for People Center, Inc. to comply with all federal and state laws concerning non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or genetic information (including family medical history), veteran status, or age (40 or older), except where age is a bona fide occupational requirement or qualification; and to take affirmative action towards the goals and intentions of the applicable laws.

Furthermore, it is our policy and intent to practice non-discrimination in regard to the above factors on personnel matters concerning employment, promotion, demotion, transfer, recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training including apprenticeship.