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Erica Tavares
Chief Development Officer at USA for UNHCR
Professional Background
Erica Tavares is a prominent fundraising, partnership development, and marketing professional with a proven track record in driving revenue growth and mobilizing resources to meet the diverse needs of organizations. With extensive experience working with both nonprofit and humanitarian organizations, her expertise lies in bridging the gap between donors and the organizations seeking their support, ensuring effective giving that aligns with global programmatic goals. Over the years, Erica has honed her skills in leading fundraising teams and developing strategic partnerships, enabling organizations to achieve breakthrough results in their mission-driven initiatives.
Notable Career Highlights
In her current role as Chief Development Officer at USA for UNHCR, Erica leads efforts to mobilize critical resources for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Her role underscores her commitment to social justice and humanitarian efforts, leveraging her extensive background in fundraising and partnership development to drive impactful programs that support displaced individuals around the world.
Before joining USA for UNHCR, Erica served as the Vice President of Institutional Partnerships and Philanthropy at International Medical Corps, where she played a pivotal role in expanding the organization’s funding base through innovative partnership strategies and successful cultivation of major donors. Her previous hands-on experience as Senior Director of Institutional Advancement further solidified her strategic planning and relationship management capabilities, significantly enhancing the organization’s outreach and fundraising efforts.
Erica’s career trajectory also includes pivotal positions such as Director of Resource Development and Director of Institutional Advancement at International Medical Corps, where she was instrumental in shaping the organization's resource mobilization strategies. Her prior experience as Director of Institutional Advancement at Women for Women International showcased her ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and promote philanthropic initiatives that empower women in disadvantaged regions. Additionally, her earlier role as a Research Associate at the Democratic National Committee provided her with a unique insight into the intersection of policy development and fundraising, enriching her multifaceted expertise in the nonprofit sector.
Education and Achievements
Erica Tavares’s educational journey provides a strong foundation for her career in fundraising and partnership development. She earned her Master of Science degree in Social Justice and Community Action from The University of Edinburgh, focusing her studies on creating equitable solutions for marginalized communities. This academic background enabled her to approach fundraising with a lens of social responsibility, ensuring that the initiatives she advocates for are not only impactful but also socially just.
Prior to her master's degree, Erica studied at American University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Here, she developed a keen understanding of policy, governance, and the political landscape, which has been an invaluable asset in her fundraising efforts, particularly in navigating complex institutional frameworks for collaboration.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Erica has received recognition for her outstanding contributions to the fields of fundraising and nonprofit management. Her ability to cultivate meaningful partnerships has enabled organizations to thrive, securing essential funds to support their missions. Her strategic approach to fundraising encompasses various channels, including grants, major gifts, and corporate sponsorships, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to advancing organizational objectives.
Erica's influence extends beyond her immediate roles, as she regularly participates in conferences and seminars focusing on fundraising trends and development strategies, sharing her insights and best practices with peers in the industry. Her passion for mentorship also drives her to guide emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector, equipping them with the skills necessary for sustainable fundraising and advocacy.
Call to Action
Erica Tavares's dedication to social justice, combined with her expertise in partnership development and fundraising, positions her as a leading figure in the nonprofit sector. For organizations seeking to enhance their fundraising capabilities and achieve significant impact, Erica's extensive knowledge and experience make her a valuable asset. Whether through collaborations, speaking engagements, or future initiatives, Erica is poised to continue transforming the landscape of fundraising and resource mobilization on a global scale.