Vice President of Philanthropy for the Minnesota Star Tribune
Ballinger | Leafblad is proud to partner with the Minnesota Star Tribune in Minneapolis, Minnesota to identify their Vice President of Philanthropy, who will be at the forefront of an ambitious and transformative mission to secure the future of local journalism. This leader will design and execute innovative philanthropic strategies that drive sustainable growth—a dynamic fundraiser and relationship builder, capable of engaging individuals, foundations, and corporations in support of high-impact journalism.
ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW
The Minnesota Star Tribune is an innovative modern media organization building on an extraordinary 157-year legacy. With seven Pulitzer Prizes and numerous other accolades, we stand as a beacon of journalistic excellence in Minnesota. We are the heart and voice of the North.
Our mission is to build a better Minnesota by connecting us with the people, ideas, and stories that strengthen our communities. We’re seeking dynamic leaders who are passionate about journalism and democracy to help shape this future. If you are excited about reinventing one of our state’s most trusted institutions and leading us into a new era of growth and excellence, we want to hear from you.
Investing in the Future of News: The Minnesota Star Tribune’s Bold Evolution
Journalism in America is at a turning point. The digital age has upended traditional funding models, creating new challenges for local news organizations. The Minnesota Star Tribune, the Midwest’s largest news organization, is leading the charge to reimagine what a modern newsroom can be. Over the past few months, the Minnesota Star Tribune has embraced bold initiatives to chart a sustainable future, including welcoming more than 11,000 new digital subscribers, launching a groundbreaking local news fund, and embarking on a mission to be the leading model for local journalism in the country.
These efforts are not just about survival—they’re about transformation. Minnesota has lost 35% of its newspapers and more than 65% of its journalists over the past decade. The Minnesota Star Tribune recognizes that its role is more essential than ever, not only as a source of news but as a vital civic institution. To build the kind of news organization Minnesota deserves, the Minnesota Star Tribune is embracing a hybrid funding model that combines traditional subscriptions with philanthropic support. Through partnerships with foundations and local philanthropic leaders, the Minnesota Star Tribune’s new Local News Fund aims to deliver better investigative reporting, broaden coverage across the state, and shine a light on the critical issues that matter most to Minnesotans.
This moment is about more than adapting to the challenges of the industry. It’s about reshaping how Minnesotans see their connection to the news.
With a bold vision for the future, the Minnesota Star Tribune is setting the stage for the next chapter of its story—and for local journalism across America. As the Minnesota Star Tribune expands its reach, deepens its investigative reporting, and brings more voices into the conversation, the Vice President of Philanthropy will be a crucial leader in inviting Minnesotans to join in shaping a stronger, more connected, and better-informed community.
POSITION PROFILE | VICE PRESIDENT OF PHILANTHROPY
Summary:
The Minnesota Star Tribune is seeking an experienced Vice President of Philanthropy to expand strategic efforts to identify and secure robust funding for our mission. This includes philanthropic partnerships and fundraising via key audiences including, but not limited to, individuals, foundations, and corporations. The VP of Philanthropy will work closely with our executive stakeholders to lead our Philanthropic team as we scale our charitable giving campaigns.
Externally, the VP of Philanthropy will serve as a key representative for The Minnesota Star Tribune across a broad spectrum of stakeholders including donors, sponsors, partners, among others. The VP of Philanthropy will be an outstanding builder and leader of teams, will be an accomplished multi-channel fundraiser, will have a robust local network base and will thrive in an innovative, mission-driven environment. As a key public-facing leader of the company, this VP will represent the Strib in important forums and conversations, building momentum and belief in the power of journalism to improve society – and the urgent necessity to fund it.
Management Responsibilities:
The Vice President of Philanthropy reports to the Chief Revenue Officer.
Direct reports include Head of Philanthropic Partnerships
Key Responsibilities:
Take lead on our philanthropy strategy development and ensure the proper execution of The Minnesota Star Tribune’s philanthropy strategy, implementing innovative fundraising models to drive increased growth and operational success.
Collaborate with our executive team to understand and represent philanthropy priorities; align those priorities with appropriate channel and audience-based fundraising strategies to ensure success.
Work closely with The Minnesota Star Tribune’s CEO, CRO, and CFO to identify and amplify opportunities that drive additional fundraising.
Collaborate with newsroom leadership to ensure philanthropic efforts grow the impact of our journalism.
Partner with sales and marketing teams to develop key messaging and positioning strategies to optimize fundraising.
Engage stakeholders in the development of new philanthropy and fundraising concepts to identify funding opportunities.
Maintain relationships with key audiences including our fiscal partner, individuals, foundations, corporations, consultants, and our peer set to ensure that The Minnesota Star Tribune’s philanthropy and fundraising endeavors deliver measurable, long-term value.
Desired Qualifications:
10+ years of experience of philanthropy and fundraising experience from multiple industries (media a plus) is highly desired.
5+ years of executive, leadership, and supervisory experience.
Master’s degree in business or similar; JD preferred.
Experience with for-profit organizations is preferred, but not required.
Experience standing up a 501(c)(3) is preferred but not required.
Possesses existing relationships with prospective funders, corporate decision makers and/or industry leaders as well as strong relationship building skills.
Ability to lead executive-level meetings, webinars, workshops, etc.
Experience leading fundraising efforts tied to 7 figure minimum annual results.
Experienced people leader, influencer, and strong relationship builder.
Strong business writing and excellent verbal communication skills.
Ability to thrive and think creatively and calmly in highly fluid situations and under intense schedules and deadlines.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
$175,000 - $225,000+ / year
Compensation for the role will depend on several factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience and may fall outside of the range shown. The Minnesota Star Tribune offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401(K) match, healthcare coverage – medical, dental, and vision, life, disability, paid time off, and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at benefits.startribunecompany.com.
Benefits:
At The Minnesota Star Tribune, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to their happiness, growth, and well-being. Here’s a snapshot of the exceptional benefits we offer:
Modern Downtown Office: Enjoy a state-of-the-art workspace with a free fitness center, collaborative center, golf simulator, and a rooftop patio.
Comprehensive Benefits: Includes commuting subsidy, medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Wellness & Work-Life Balance: Participate in our wellness program with financial incentives, generous paid time off, flexible holidays, one volunteer day, and two wellness days.
Financial & Family Support: Benefit from a 401(k) with company match, paid parental and caregiving leave, hybrid work arrangements, and tuition reimbursement.
Additional Perks: Access to an employee assistance program, pet insurance, flexible spending accounts, and health savings accounts.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Honored in 2023 with Diversity MBA's inaugural Top 25 Outstanding Leadership and Diversity Impact Awards, we are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Even if you don't meet every single requirement for this role, we encourage you to apply. At The Minnesota Star Tribune, we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
BALLINGER | LEAFBLAD SEARCH TEAM
Our collaborative search model is led by partners who bring diverse expertise across recruitment strategy, engagement, communications, and project management, ensuring a comprehensive and relationship-focused approach to finding the right leader.
Lars Leafblad
Co-Founder & Partner
Jamie Millard
Partner
PROCESS TO APPLY
We strive for a transparent and supportive process, starting with an initial review of applications, followed by exploratory conversations with qualified candidates, in-depth interviews, and open communication throughout. There will be an immediate and ongoing review of candidates, so we encourage and appreciate early applications. All inquiries will remain confidential.
To apply, send your resume and cover letter to Jamie Millard, jamie@ballingerleafblad.com.
For more details or questions, inquiries may also be directed to Jamie Millard, jamie@ballingerleafblad.com.
Applications will be accepted until March 07, 2025 or until the position has been filled, which may be earlier.