Our Development Specialist job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
About the Development Specialist role
Development Specialists are professionals who help organizations identify and implement strategies to achieve their goals. They provide advice and assistance to organizations on how to maximize their resources, develop new initiatives, and create effective plans and processes. Development Specialists evaluate current programs and suggest new strategies to improve results. They also help organizations develop and implement strategies to increase their capacity and outreach.
Role Purpose
The purpose of a Development Specialist is to support organizational and individual development initiatives. They provide guidance and advice on how to best use resources to improve efficiency, build capacity, and grow an organization. Development Specialists use a variety of tools and methods to assess and evaluate the effectiveness of development initiatives, and provide recommendations for improvement. They also collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement training, education, and other initiatives that support the organization’s goals and objectives.
Development Specialist Summary
Development Specialist Job Summary
The Development Specialist is a key member of the organization's development team, responsible for developing and executing strategies to meet the organization's fundraising and donor management goals. The Development Specialist will research and cultivate relationships with prospective donors, coordinate special events, manage donor databases, prepare grant applications, develop fundraising campaigns, and create reports for the executive team. The ideal candidate is an organized, detail-oriented self-starter with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a strong understanding of fundraising trends. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least three years of experience in a similar role.
Development Specialist Duties
- Develop and implement strategies and programs to enhance organizational effectiveness
- Conduct research and analyze data to inform program development
- Develop and manage project timelines and budgets
- Facilitate collaboration among stakeholders
- Provide technical assistance and support to program staff
- Design and deliver training and professional development programs
- Evaluate program effectiveness and impact
- Provide guidance and support to program participants
Development Specialist Skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of software development processes and methodologies
- Knowledge of project management principles
- Knowledge of project coordination techniques
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Development Specialist Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or a related field
- Experience in development, human resources, or management
- Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong problem solving and analytical skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Personal Traits
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Highly organized and detail-oriented
- Ability to think analytically and critically
- Ability to prioritize tasks
- Ability to interpret quantitative and qualitative data