Mason Best Ward

About Mason Best Ward

With over 15 years of experience in sales, business development, and nonprofit fundraising, I specialize in building strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth, and advancing organizational missions. I bring a consultative approach to client relationship management, helping businesses and nonprofits align their goals with strategic growth opportunities.Throughout my career, I have consistently exceeded revenue targets by anticipating client needs, fostering long-term relationships, and delivering tailored solutions. My entrepreneurial mindset, resourcefulness, and collaborative leadership style make me an asset in dynamic, mission-driven environments.Skills: ·Business-to-Business (B2B) · Outside Sales · Business Relationship Management · Pricing Strategy · Cold Calling · Customer Retention · Solution Selling · Business Planning · Customer Relationship Management (CRM) · Team Building · Brand Awareness · Management · Negotiation · Direct Sales · Team Leadership · Business Strategy · Strategic Thinking · Sales & Marketing · Client Relations · Sales Processes · Analytical Skills · Marketing Strategy · Sales Management · Account Management · Recruiting · Project Management · Business Development

Experience

1. Director of Development

   The Formation Project

   May 2025 — Present · Charleston, SC, US

   The Formation Project is a non-profit based in Charleston, SC building a resilient communityfree from exploitation. The Formation Project serves survivors of sex and/or labor trafficking byproviding safety, stability, and connection through case management, peer support, and legalservices.As Development Director at The Formation Project, I lead the organization’s fundraising and communications strategy to support survivors of human trafficking. I oversee donor relations, philanthropic campaigns, and community partnerships, while managing multi-channel communications to amplify our mission and impact. My role bridges strategic relationship-building with storytelling—driving growth, visibility, and engagement across corporate, foundation, and individual supporters.

Education

• University of South Carolina

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs

  1991 — 1995

Skills

• Community Outreach
• Nonprofits
• Volunteer Management
• Training
• Social Media
• Staff Development
• Event Planning
• Strategic Planning
• Public Speaking
• Board Development
• Fundraising
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Program Development
• Public Relations