OLLIE DAVIDSON
Chicago
Summary
A senior philanthropic leader with 20+ years of experience driving transformational growth for mission-driven organizations. Expert in developing and executing multi-year fundraising strategies, cultivating and securing six- and seven-figure gifts from global foundations and HNWIs, and building high-performing teams. A strategic, entrepreneurial partner to executive leadership and Boards, dedicated to leveraging philanthropic partnerships for outsized impact.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Philanthropy
Animal Equality
03.2018 - Current
- Spearheaded the strategic vision for all philanthropic revenue, overseeing a diverse portfolio including major gifts, foundations, and digital campaigns. Managed and mentored an international team across 8 countries.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive philanthropic strategy that consistently exceeded annual revenue goals, including leading the organization to meet a $5MM annual goal and a $1MM year-end campaign target.
- Directed organizational messaging and communication strategies, ensuring alignment between fundraising goals and public-facing materials, including a bi-annual magazine and quarterly impact reports.
- Managed a robust portfolio of 500+ mid-level to major donors and prospects, creating and implementing personalized stewardship plans for each.
- Cultivated and secured six- and seven-figure gifts through sophisticated, one-on-one relationship building and strategic engagement.
- Directed high-level outreach, conferences, and regional events to attract new prospects and deepen relationships with current donors.
- Served as a key strategic partner to the Executive Director, providing briefing materials and talking points to prepare for high-level donor engagements.
Development Director
West Suburban Humane Society
03.2017 - 03.2018
- Managed a pipeline of major gift prospects, moving donors through the cultivation and solicitation cycle.
- Oversaw direct mail and digital communication strategies, enhancing donor acquisition and retention.
Fundraising and Programs Consultant
Self-employeed
01.2015 - 03.2017
- Contracted by various nonprofits to develop and implement strategic fundraising plans, communications strategies, and new program initiatives.
Marketing and Operations Director
Tree House Humane Society
01.2000 - 01.2016
- Pioneered digital fundraising and communications programs, significantly growing online revenue streams.
- Served as Project Manager for a complete brand and website refresh, modernizing the organization's public presence.
- Hired, mentored, and managed a large, cross-functional team of 40+ staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Creative Writing
Columbia College Chicago
Chicago, IL01-2003
Skills
- Philanthropic Strategy: Multi-Year Fundraising Planning Donor Engagement Strategy Revenue Diversification Board & ED Partnership
- Major Gifts: Six- & Seven-Figure Solicitation Portfolio Management HNWI & Foundation Relations Stewardship & Cultivation
- Leadership: Team Management & Mentoring Cross-Functional Collaboration Strategic Planning Operational Oversight
- Communications: Donor-Facing Materials Impact Reporting Executive Briefing Public Relations
Technical Proficiencies
Salesforce, EveryAction, Wealth Engine, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite, Asana, Slack, WordPress, Meta Ads Manager, Google Analytics, AI Tools and Platforms
Timeline
Director of Philanthropy
Animal Equality
03.2018 - Current
Development Director
West Suburban Humane Society
03.2017 - 03.2018
Fundraising and Programs Consultant
Self-employeed
01.2015 - 03.2017
Marketing and Operations Director
Tree House Humane Society
01.2000 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Creative Writing
Columbia College Chicago
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