Director of Development

Director of Development

The Director of Development is responsible for planning, leading, and executing all fundraising and resource development activities to support the organization's mission and strategic goals. This position develops and implements comprehensive fundraising strategies, including major gifts, annual giving campaigns, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, special events, and donor stewardship. The Director of Development builds and maintains strong relationships with donors, community partners, foundations, corporations, board members, and volunteers to secure financial support and increase community engagement.

The Director of Development works closely with the CEO/President and COO to establish fundraising goals, identify new revenue opportunities, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization. This role oversees donor management systems, tracks fundraising performance, prepares reports, and ensures compliance with grant and donor requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, foundation, and community donors.
• Identify and pursue grant funding opportunities; oversee grant writing and reporting processes.
• Lead annual giving campaigns, capital campaigns, and special fundraising initiatives.
• Plan and coordinate fundraising events and donor recognition activities.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, community leaders, and funding partners.
• Collaborate with the CEO/President, COO, and leadership team, on fundraising strategies and donor engagement.
• Manage donor database and fundraising records to ensure accurate tracking and reporting.
• Monitor fundraising progress and provide regular reports on goals, outcomes, and return on investment.
• Develop marketing and communication strategies that support fundraising efforts.
• Ensure compliance with applicable fundraising regulations and ethical standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible fundraising or development experience.
• Proven success in securing major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and donor contributions.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience working with nonprofit boards, community leaders, and volunteers.
• Proficiency with donor management software and fundraising databases.
• Ability to analyze data, develop fundraising strategies, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential.
• Experience in youth development, education, community services, or nonprofit organizations.
• Knowledge of local, regional, and national philanthropic funding sources.