Director of Stewardship

Job Description

Summary of Position: The Director of Stewardship leads the stewardship and development efforts of the Diocese of Charleston. This position is responsible for promoting a culture of gratitude and faithful discipleship by engaging donors, parishioners, and benefactors in support of the mission of the Catholic Church. The Director also promotes and supports all functions necessary to deliver a successful Catholic Appeal and is responsible with assisting parishes/missions, schools, and other Catholic programs in conducting fundraising communication, capital campaigns, planned giving, major gifts, and donor relations. The Director also oversees the administrative and operational aspects of stewardship and development, ensuring alignment with the mission, values, and priorities of the Diocese.

Classification: Exempt (Full Time)

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer and Vicar General

Key Responsibilities

1. Directs and oversees stewardship initiatives for the Diocese, creating and fostering a culture of gratitude, generosity, and faithful support of parish, school, and diocesan needs.

2. Provides vision and leadership for annual appeals and diocesan-wide fundraising campaigns, ensuring best practices and donor-centered approaches.

3. Develops and maintains relationships with key benefactors, including major gift prospects, parish leaders, and Catholic community stakeholders.

4. Establishes and implements effective donor recognition and acknowledgement processes, including personal visits, thank you calls, and written communications.

5. Designs and implements strategies for growing diocesan endowments, planned giving, and major gifts, in collaboration with the Office of Finance and other diocesan leadership.

6. Provides consultation, training, and support to parishes, schools, and affiliated organizations regarding stewardship, fundraising, capital campaigns, and donor engagement.

7. Oversees prospect research and donor tracking systems to support effective cultivation and stewardship.

8. Collaborates with diocesan leadership to establish annual goals, reporting, and accountability measures for stewardship activities.

9. Provides oversight, mentoring, and leadership for stewardship staff, encouraging a collaborative and mission-driven team environment.

10. Prepares, manages, and monitors the stewardship department's budget.

11. Represents the Diocese at events, gatherings, and meetings with donors and stakeholders, as needed.

12. Performs other duties as assigned by the Vicar General and diocesan leadership.

Qualifications

Master's degree in a related field preferred

Minimum of 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in development, stewardship, fundraising, or nonprofit management

Proven success in strategic planning, budgeting, and staff leadership

Demonstrated expertise in major gifts, donor relations, planned giving, and estate planning strategies

Understanding of Catholic stewardship principles and ability to articulate the mission of the Church in fundraising efforts

Strong business acumen, financial understanding, and organizational management skills

Effective communicator with excellent written, oral, and public speaking skills

Experience with donor management databases and fundraising software

Practicing Catholic in good standing, with deep understanding of Catholic teaching and Church structure

Must successfully complete diocesan Safe Environment training and background check

Working Conditions/ Physical Requirements: The requirements described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers, copiers, and telephones. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Outlook and Excel. Valid driver's license required. This position involves standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and reaching above shoulders. Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds to transport files or materials.

About the Employer

The Chancery exists to serve the mission of the Bishop of Charleston to teach, sanctify, and govern the Catholic Church in South Carolina. Led by the Bishop, the Chancery supports the clergy, religious, and lay faithful in fulfilling the Great Commission given to us by the Lord Jesus.