Philanthropy Director

Join a Movement to Drive Sustainability and Transform the Future

Location: Remote (Preference for candidates in the Western US, but not required)
Department: Fundraising
Reports To: Chief Advancement Officer

Are you an innovative fundraiser with a passion for sustainability and environmental impact? Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and driving creative philanthropic strategies? If so, Upstream invites you to apply for our Philanthropy Director role—a pivotal position that will shape the future of our fundraising efforts and help advance the reuse movement.

About Upstream

Upstream is a dynamic nonprofit focused on shifting our society to a healthy, regenerative, circular economy. We create the enabling conditions — policy, evidence base, tools, infrastructure, and a North American community of practice — that make possible the transition from single-use packaging to the recirculation of returnable, reusable packaging for food, beverage, and consumer packaged goods. We aim to shift societal norms and make economic and climate impacts. Our work attracts passionate changemakers dedicated to making a tangible, measurable difference.

The Role

As Philanthropy Director, you will lead short- and long-term fundraising strategies, securing vital support for Upstream’s mission. You’ll collaborate closely with leadership to design and implement innovative campaigns, build relationships with high-net-worth donors, and ensure financial growth. This role offers opportunities to grow within the organization while driving meaningful impact in environmental philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

  • Contribute to crafting and implementing an ambitious strategic plan for philanthropy.

  • Set and achieve annual fundraising goals, managing budgets, timelines, and metrics for success.

  • Employ innovative thinking to maximize Upstream’s development efforts.

Donor Cultivation & Stewardship:

  • Build and nurture relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors.

  • Design tailored strategies to secure major, multi-year gifts and ensure donor retention.

  • Manage donor databases, recognition programs, and engagement efforts.

Campaign & Event Management:

  • Lead impactful fundraising campaigns, events, and initiatives to meet revenue goals.

  • Collaborate with the Communications Team to develop compelling donor materials.

  • Oversee and contribute to grant proposals and reports.

Industry Networking & Continuous Learning:

  • Stay informed about trends in philanthropy, donor behavior, and emerging opportunities.

  • Represent Upstream at industry events, fostering partnerships and expanding our network.

  • Actively pursue professional development to enhance fundraising effectiveness.

What You Bring

Experience & Knowledge:

  • 5+ years of demonstrated success in fundraising, ideally within environmental or sustainability-focused organizations.

  • Expertise in major gifts, annual campaigns, and donor lifecycle management.

  • Familiarity with nonprofit governance, financial management, and tax regulations for charitable giving.

Skills & Attributes:

  • Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

  • A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a strong sense of initiative.

  • Ability to inspire and influence diverse audiences while working collaboratively.

  • Proficiency with tools such as Google Suite, HubSpot, and Donor Search preferred.

Personal Values:

  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in philanthropy.

  • Passion for environmental sustainability and the reuse movement.

  • Dedication to ethical practices and transparency in fundraising.

Working Conditions

This is a remote role requiring a high level of self-motivation and flexibility. The position includes occasional travel for staff retreats and funder visits across North America.

Why Join Us?

At Upstream, we’re not just seeking a fundraiser; we’re looking for a visionary who can help us grow and scale our impact. You'll be part of a collaborative team that values creativity, initiative, and a shared passion for protecting our planet.

Compensation & Benefits

  • This position offers a salary range of $80,000-90,000 per year, commensurate with experience. 

  • Competitive benefits package including flexible time off (FTO)

  • Opportunities for professional development and upward mobility within the organization.

Apply Now

Join us in creating a sustainable future. Submit your application today and help drive the reuse movement forward. Send your resume and cover letter to amanda@upstreamsolutions.org. 

Upstream is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.