When I started directing capital campaigns in 1983, outside consultants always ran the show. A Campaign Director would live in the community for weeks or months on end, providing day to day direction and Management of the Appeal.

Today, residential direction is still a major force and is where we are usually engaged. It is the most effective way to organise a major appeal.

A Resident Campaign Director will:

+ Bring professional experience and expertise to the campaign
+ Ensure a time-efficient and cost effective campaign
+ Assist in recruiting, training, motivating and monitoring volunteers
+ Be a vital part of the campaign Leadership Team
+ Draft and implement the Campaign Plan
+ Be responsible for publicity and promotion
+ Produce training and promotional publications
+ Assist in identifying, qualifying and converting prospects to donors
+ Manage the Campaign Office
+ Establish and maintain a campaign timetable with checkpoints and interim targets
+ Provide independent, expert counsel above local politics
+ Be available, on the spot, at any hour for advice or action

Often it helps to have an "outsider" looking at our operations and practices through fundraising audits, reviews ad reports. Or managing our appeal.

An experienced outsider can bring a new viewpoint to a subject; can be an independent voice, above internal politics and power-plays; can mediate, educate, provide impartial advice and train staff and volunteers with authority.