VP of External Relations (Fundraising)

Convention of the States Action has retained recruiting firm Big Fish on this search. Please contact Chaz Cirame at chaz@recruitbigfish.com for any questions regarding the role.

Big Fish is a boutique recruiting firm specializing in the talent needed to drive policy change. Visit us at recruitbigfish.com to learn more.

Vice President of External Relations (Fundraising)
Convention of States Action– Remote

About Convention of States Action
Convention of States Action (COSA) is a 501(c)(4) grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring self-governance in America. Our mission is to build and mobilize a powerful grassroots army committed to calling an Article V Convention of States to propose constitutional amendments that limit federal overreach and return power to the states and the people. COSA has grown into one of the most impactful grassroots movements in the country, driven by engaged activists and strategic partnerships.

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Vice President of External Relations (Fundraising) to lead our fundraising and donor engagement efforts, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for our mission.

Position Overview

The Vice President of External Relations is responsible for the strategic direction, execution, and oversight of all fundraising, donor engagement, and external partnership initiatives. This senior leadership role is critical in advancing COSA’s mission by cultivating relationships with donors, stakeholders, and strategic partners to drive revenue growth and expand the organization’s influence.

The VP will lead a team of at least nine staff members and oversee all aspects of external relations, including digital marketing, direct mail, donor communications, major gifts, data management, and fundraising strategy. Reporting directly to the President, this individual will ensure that COSA's fundraising strategies align with its long-term vision and organizational priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, incorporating major gifts, monthly donor programs, direct mail, digital fundraising, and high-level donor engagement.
• Lead and optimize all donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts to meet and exceed revenue goals.
• Oversee fundraising campaigns, ensuring they are data-driven, scalable, and aligned with organizational priorities.
• Track and analyze fundraising performance metrics, making data-informed decisions to enhance engagement and revenue.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with major donors, foundations (C3), and other key stakeholders.
• Develop and execute customized donor stewardship plans to enhance retention and increase giving levels.
• Personally engage and solicit high-net-worth individuals, board members, and other influential stakeholders.
• Represent COSA at high-profile donor meetings, conferences, and events to strengthen relationships and elevate the organization's visibility.

• Directly oversee and manage a team of at least nine fundraising and external relations staff, ensuring performance, growth, and alignment with COSA’s mission.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to enhance the team's effectiveness.
• Manage external vendors and contractors involved in fundraising, marketing, and donor outreach.

• Lead and coordinate donor communications, including newsletters, appeals, and impact reports.
• Oversee digital marketing initiatives, including email fundraising, social media engagement, and donor acquisition campaigns.
• Ensure consistency in messaging and branding across all fundraising and donor engagement materials.

• Oversee donor data management and CRM systems (Salesforce) to ensure accurate record-keeping, segmentation, and reporting.
• Develop and manage the external relations budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit fundraising regulations and ethical standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• 10+ years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, and/or external relations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven success in designing and executing multi-channel fundraising strategies that drive significant revenue growth.
• Strong track record in securing major gifts and building long-term donor relationships.
• Exceptional leadership and team management experience, with the ability to inspire and develop staff.
• High-level expertise in donor management systems (Salesforce preferred), Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and fundraising communication tools.
• Excellent communication skills, including written proposals, donor pitches, and public speaking.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills, capable of using data to inform decision-making.
• Deep commitment to COSA’s mission and principles of self-governance, federalism, and grassroots activism.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and loyalty, capable of managing sensitive donor relationships and information.

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Mission – Be at the forefront of one of the most important grassroots movements in the country.
• High-Level Leadership – Join a senior leadership team shaping the future of the organization.
• Growth & Development – Lead a dynamic team and drive meaningful fundraising success.
• Flexibility – This is a remote position with opportunities for travel and networking.

How to Apply

Convention of States Action has retained Big Fish as its recruiting firm for this search.

For more information or to apply, please contact Chaz Cirame at chaz@recruitbigfish.com.