Fundraising Director Onboarding Checklist

Fundraising Director Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Fundraising Director starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Nonprofit onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Fundraising Director, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Fundraising Director onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Fundraising Director Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the organization: The new Fundraising Director should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the nonprofit organization, including its mission, values, history, and current programs. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated staff member responsible for onboarding.

2. Orientation to the fundraising department: The new Fundraising Director should receive an orientation specific to the fundraising department, which includes an overview of the team structure, roles and responsibilities, and key fundraising strategies and initiatives. This task is usually performed by the Director of Development or a senior member of the fundraising team.

3. Review of fundraising goals and targets: The new Fundraising Director should be provided with a detailed review of the organization’s fundraising goals, targets, and performance metrics. This includes an understanding of the current fundraising budget, revenue streams, and any ongoing campaigns or initiatives. The Director of Development or Chief Executive Officer typically performs this task.

4. Introduction to key stakeholders: The new Fundraising Director should be introduced to key stakeholders within the organization, including the Board of Directors, senior management team, and other department heads. This task is typically coordinated by the Chief Executive Officer or Director of Development.

5. Familiarization with donor database and systems: The Fundraising Director should receive training on the organization’s donor database and other fundraising systems, such as online fundraising platforms or CRM software. This task is usually performed by the Database Manager or a designated staff member responsible for managing fundraising systems.

6. Review of existing donor relationships: The new Fundraising Director should be provided with a comprehensive review of existing donor relationships, including major donors, corporate sponsors, and foundation partners. This task is typically performed by the Director of Development or a senior member of the fundraising team.

7. Introduction to fundraising policies and procedures: The Fundraising Director should receive a thorough introduction to the organization’s fundraising policies and procedures, including gift acceptance policies, donor recognition guidelines, and ethical fundraising practices. This task is typically performed by the Director of Development or a designated staff member responsible for fundraising compliance.

8. Training on fundraising strategies and techniques: The new Fundraising Director should receive training on various fundraising strategies and techniques, such as major gifts, corporate partnerships, grant writing, and special events. This training is typically provided by the Director of Development or experienced members of the fundraising team.

9. Collaboration with program staff: The Fundraising Director should have opportunities to collaborate with program staff to gain a deeper understanding of the organization’s programs and impact. This collaboration can include attending program meetings, site visits, or participating in program-related events. The Director of Development or Chief Program Officer typically facilitates this task.

10. Development of a fundraising plan: The new Fundraising Director should work with the Director of Development and other key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive fundraising plan that aligns with the organization’s strategic goals. This plan should include specific fundraising targets, strategies, and timelines. The Director of Development and Chief Executive Officer typically lead this task.

11. Introduction to the board fundraising committee: The Fundraising Director should be introduced to the board fundraising committee, if applicable, and provided with an overview of their roles and responsibilities in supporting fundraising efforts. This task is typically coordinated by the Chief Executive Officer or Director of Development.

12. Ongoing mentorship and support: The new Fundraising Director should be assigned a mentor or provided with ongoing support from a senior member of the fundraising team to ensure a smooth transition and continuous learning. This mentorship can include regular check-ins, guidance on specific fundraising initiatives, and opportunities for professional development. The Director of Development or Chief Executive Officer typically oversees this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Fundraising Director checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Fundraising Director up to speed and working well in your Nonprofit team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.