December marks an expanding team in the Prairies Region as well-known fundraiser, Richard Kies, is appointed Senior Consultant. Richard’s specialty is integrating fundraising and communications plans, strategies, and teams to achieve organizational success. His career began on the frontline of crisis communications with a national disaster response charity, deploying to some of Canada’s biggest natural disasters such as the 2003 Okanagan Mountain Park fire and the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire. He transitioned into senior fundraising roles, helping raise millions through disaster appeals, annual campaigns, and the launch of a signature donor event in Saskatchewan.
“I’m thrilled to join Global’s cross-country network of fundraising experts while making this knowledge more accessible to Saskatchewan-based charities and non-profits,” shares Richard. “I know first-hand the challenges this sector faces and I’m excited to work hand-in-hand with leaders, helping them to expand their impact for the benefit of our communities.”
At a young age, Richard was exposed to philanthropy and the concept of, “think globally, act locally.” Taking inspiration from this motto, he has pursued a 25-year career in the sector, operating at the intersection of fundraising, communications, and leadership. Whether it was as Communications Director, Fund Development Manager, or Executive Director, Richard has a proven track record of helping organizations to increase revenue and maximize impact.
In 2018, Richard became Executive Director for an iconic Saskatchewan charity. During his six-year tenure, he led the organization to raise more than $36 million through its annual televised telethon. In total, Richard has been part of raising more than $50 million for the charities he has worked for.
“Richard brings exceptional leadership and a depth of experience that will strengthen our work both at a local level and across the country,” shares Corrie Fortner, Vice President, Prairies. “We are genuinely excited to welcome him to the team, knowing that his thoughtful approach and decades of nonprofit expertise will offer tremendous value to our clients.”
“I’m delighted to welcome Richard to the Global community,” adds Guy Mallabone, CEO & President. “He brings a wealth of fundraising experience and long-standing relationships throughout Saskatoon and Saskatchewan. His appointment strengthens our commitment to providing locally informed, nationally connected counsel to our clients.”
Richard holds the Strategic Communications Management Professional (SCMP) designation from the Global Communications Certification Council (GCCC) and an Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) designation from the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). He has been an IABC member since 1997 and currently sits on its International Executive Board.
Starting in December, Richard offers non-profits a complimentary 30-minute session to assess effective solutions to their most pressing challenges.
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Global Philanthropic Canada is Canada’s fundraising consultancy, comprised of highly experienced practitioners averaging 28 years of experience each. With 90 + team members, we deliver professional and accessible fundraising counsel to organizations of all sectors, sizes and missions. We advocate for and believe in the power of a respectful and inclusive environment for all. We build capacity, striving to maximize the impact of your mission. We value every collaborative project with our clients, working on the ground with you, not for you. We aim to support, teach and propel you to meet and exceed your goals.
