Summary:

This not-for-profit Board position presents a unique opportunity to contribute critical skills to support a respected professional society promoting ecological research, policy and principles.

• The position of Director – Philanthropy and Sponsorship will develop the Society’s philanthropy and sponsorship strategy, and oversee associated activities with the support of ESA staff, and in collaboration with other Board members.
• The position will be a member of the ESA Board structure within the Treasurer portfolio, and report to the Financial Governance Working Group (FGWG)
• The position carries an Honorarium of $2000 pa. Potential exists for an additional percentage of revenue to be negotiated based on agreed targets.
• Includes funded travel to attend annual ESA Board Planning Day linked to annual conference (2024 Melbourne, Vic)

The Organisation:

The Ecological Society of Australia (ESA) is a not for profit professional membership organisation that has been promoting and coordinating ecological research and supporting professional ecologists across Australia for over 60 years. The work of our members expands our knowledge and understanding of Australia’s environments, and directly contributes to the conservation and management of our species and ecosystems. We are passionate about supporting our members so they can excel in their work, and through that have a positive and tangible impact on our world.

Position overview:

The role of Director (Philanthropy and Sponsorship) is a member of the ESA Board with a minimum expected term of 2 years and a maximum term of 6 years.

The Society’s current primary source of income is publishing revenue from two academic journals. The primary immediate purpose of the role is to increase and diversify revenue from external sources and partnerships.

The Director will provide oversight and direction for the ESA’s philanthropic engagement and sponsorship and business liaison activities including brand development and management.

The responsibilities of the role are to:

• Develop a philanthropy and sponsorship strategy to be implemented over the duration of the 2019/20 – 2023/24 Strategic Plan including:
  • Undertaking a Brand review and identifying mechanisms to leverage this Brand for philanthropic and partnership opportunities
  • Identifying potential philanthropic and sponsorship partners and sectors
  • Development of an active bequest program
  • Identifying other alternate sources of income
  • Action plan for converting opportunities into income
• Develop philanthropy and sponsorship targets in collaboration with the Financial Governance Working Group (FGWG)
• Provide oversight and advice on implementation of the strategy supported by ESA staff.
• Monitor outcomes against targets
• Provide strategy & leadership, with the VP – Membership & Communication, to develop and implement programs that increase member participation and giving.

FGWG Membership

The Financial Governance Working Group (FGWG) oversees the financial management of the Society. FGWG membership comprises the President, Treasurer, Executive Officer, Immediate Past President or President-elect (when relevant), Treasurer-elect (when relevant), Director - Philanthropy and Sponsorship and contracted Financial Management service providers or staff.

Meeting Schedule:

The Financial Governance Working Group meets virtually on a quarterly basis – the Director- Philanthropy and Sponsorship should provide a report to each meeting. This position would also need to attend a minimum of four online Board meetings per year and, if possible, the ESA Board annual Strategic Planning Day held in-person prior to the annual conference. Travel and accommodation to attend the Planning Day are funded by the Society. Day to day business is conducted via online meetings, email & phone.

Time Commitment:

Time required to commit to the position is estimated at an average of 1-2 days per month

Remuneration:

The role of Director – Fundraising and Sponsorship is supported by an honorarium of $2000 p.a. Potential exists for an additional percentage of revenue to be negotiated based on agreed targets.

More information:

Contact our Executive Officer, Gail Spina, for more information about this position

e: [email protected], using the subject line: Director - Philanthropy & Sponsorship enquiry via EthicalJobs

Ph: 0409 279 068

Please click Apply Now to submit your application.

A position description is attached.

Website:

ecolsoc.org.au.