Fundraiser

 Fundraiser
fund administrator, fundraiser, resource development manager, fundraising manager
The fundraiser brings in money for a solidarity operation. To do this, it collects funds from companies or patrons using reasoned financial files. On the other hand, it organizes events or citizen mobilizations with a view to soliciting public generosity. He most often works at the headquarters of an NGO (non-governmental organization) or in an agency specializing in marketing.

Professional life
Very often employed
The fundraiser may be an employee of associations or foundations in the solidarity and humanitarian sectors (Doctors Without Borders, Action Against Hunger, Secours catholique, etc.). It is also found in the sectors of medical research, culture through sponsorship (museum) or higher education (college, university, etc.). Within a specialized marketing and communications agency, his role consists of advising associations on fundraising.
One or more positions
In large structures, fundraising is spread across several positions: a database administrator, a private fundraising manager, a corporate fundraising manager, a legacy manager (also with legal skills), a marketing manager . In smaller organizations, only one person is responsible for collection.
A developing activity
Fundraising is booming and must adapt to an ever-changing environment. In recent years, the disengagement of the State and the reduction in subsidies, as well as the recent law on university autonomy, have contributed to the development of this activity.
Beginner's salary
1500 euros gross per month (in humanitarian work).
Working conditions
Office work
Contrary to what one might believe, the humanitarian fundraiser does not go on a field mission. He most often works at the headquarters of an NGO (non-governmental organization) or in an agency specializing in marketing. However, in some organizations, this office work may require travel.
Teamwork
The fundraiser does not work alone. He has regular contact with the database administrator, program managers, the board of directors, the financial department, etc. If he sets up a communication and collection event, he informs the department Press. It also collaborates with external service providers: printers for the production of mailings, communications and marketing agencies, for example.
SKILLS
A bilingual communicator
The fundraiser must have a marketing culture, good writing skills and be bilingual. English is essential. Beyond mastery of a foreign language, we are witnessing an “Anglo-Saxonization” of collection practices. The international dimension allows for greater efficiency.
Honesty required
Listening, interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team are recommended. Being a good speaker is an asset when you have to argue and defend a cause that requires the provision of funds. Rigor, intellectual and financial honesty are essential to give donors confidence.
Generosity and altruism
Associative experience as well as an interest in humanitarian issues are essential. As well as qualities of generosity and altruism in the service of the causes defended.
Nature of the work
Find donors
The fundraiser is constantly looking for new donors who must then be retained. Its prospecting and monitoring work is based on a contact base or database. It is he who creates the donor files, analyzes them and constantly enriches them. Using specific methods, it determines the profile of donors and can thus personalize its requests.
Define the communication strategy
To mobilize donors, the fundraiser defines a strategy in agreement with his management. He develops budgets, drafts appeals for donations addressed to individuals or businesses by different means: mail, telephone, e-mailing, direct contact, events, etc. The fundraiser can also solicit public generosity by organizing cultural events, variety galas, plays, street collections, etc.
Accountable
For the sake of transparency, he reports and answers questions from donors on the use of funds: investment in the field, operation of the association, etc. All this information he obtains from program managers and the Financial direction.
Training to enter the profession
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