Starla McDermott

Background

About Starla McDermott

I have a successful track record in leadership, fund development, program management, donor relations, communication and public relations. I am both diplomatic and tactful with Donors and team members at all levels. I take a proactive approach to problem-solving. I am skilled at multi-tasking and work collaboratively to meet organizational goals. Disciplined and well organized, I have the ability to function calmly in high pressure situations. Skill Summary. Leadership - As a Development Director, I grew Development staff from two to six staff members and increased revenue by 72% over four years and increased active donor count by 30% over the last two years. Built a staff who embodies strong values and a commitment to gratitude and full transparency. Encourage trust, initiative and inclusivity. Fundraising - Built and executed a robust nonprofit budget, surpassing fundraising goals each year. Implemented a strong fundraising strategy that includes monthly appeals, marketing, digital advertising and public relations, ensuring all Development staff and vendors are telling the same stories well. Create a "culture of asking" and assist staff in closing major gifts. Board Engagement - Ability to work closely with Board members and provide detailed reporting on financials, campaigns and current state of the Development Department. Assist Board in planning and implementation of the Strategic Plan. As a former Board Vice Chair, I understand the role to build, sustain and strengthen the Board's function; meetings, policy compliance and committee work. Financial Management & Operations - Experienced in creating a nonprofit budget that fits the needs with a whole picture, not just the fundraising budget. Participate in a nonprofit audit process so I can implement an annual report, grant proposals, License to Solicit and provide to third-party vendors that track nonprofit transparency (GuideStar, Charity Navigator, etc.). Programming - Developed several community programs from start to finish, including client engagement and producing positive Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). I recognize the importance of leadership in programming and guiding staff to achieve effectiveness while ensuring equity and quality programming. Public Relations - I am the lead staff for all media interviews and have consistently represented nonprofits on radio, TV and print interviews such as the Grand Rapids Business Journal and MiBiz. Effectively use media relations and digital advertising to tell the stories of the organization and engage stakeholders.