Director of Development

Director, DevelopmentLaureus USA seeks a dynamic and relationship-driven fundraiser to serve as Director, Development. Based in New York City, this role will play a key part in advancing the organization's fundraising efforts across individual, foundation, and corporate giving, with a particular focus on building and growing individual donor support.Reporting to the Sr. Director, External Affairs, the Director, Development will be responsible for managing and growing a portfolio of donors and prospects, with an emphasis on high-net-worth individuals. This role requires a strong external presence, with the ability to confidently engage donors, build meaningful relationships, and move prospects through the full giving cycle. The Director will also play a role as part of Laureus USA's national leadership team, contributing to organizational priorities and ensuring alignment between fundraising efforts and broader strategy.The Director will be responsible for developing Laureus' individual giving strategy, working closely with the Sr. Director, External Affairs and Executive Director to build a more robust and sustainable pipeline. This position requires both strong execution and the ability to operate in a growing area of the organization.Key ResponsibilitiesGrow and manage a portfolio of donors and prospects across individual, foundation, and corporate giving, with a focus on high-net-worth individualsCultivate, solicit, and close gifts of $25K+ through thoughtful and strategic donor engagementLead donor relationships through the full lifecycle, from identification and cultivation to solicitation and stewardshipLeverage athlete relationships and engagement opportunities, in coordination with the Athlete Council, to strengthen donor relationships and advance fundraising effortsPartner with the Sr. Director, External Affairs and Executive Director on strategy and engagement for priority prospects and donorsMaintain accurate tracking of donor activity and pipeline progressLead the development and execution of Laureus USA's individual giving strategyIdentify and pursue opportunities to build a stronger pipeline of high-net-worth individual donorsContribute to the creation of compelling cases for support and engagement strategies tailored to individual donorsEstablish systems and approaches to support long-term growth in individual philanthropyPlay a leading role in driving fundraising through events, including cultivation events and major fundraising momentsSupport the planning and execution of events in partnership with the broader teamEngage donors before, during, and after events to deepen relationships and drive givingCollaborate with the Board of Directors, Athlete Council, and broader athlete community to support donor engagement, cultivation, and event-based fundraising opportunitiesParticipate in evening and weekend events as neededWork closely with the External Affairs team to ensure alignment across development, partnerships, and marketing effortsCollaborate with program staff to effectively communicate impact and connect donors to Laureus' workSupport broader fundraising efforts across foundation and corporate giving as neededServe as a member of Laureus USA's national leadership team, contributing to organizational priorities and cross-functional alignmentRepresent the development function in internal strategy, planning and decision-making conversationsEngage regularly with Board members and support their fundraising and relationship-building effortsContribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environmentCandidate AttributesDemonstrated experience in fundraising, with a track record of managing donor relationships and closing giftsExperience working with high-net-worth individuals and comfort operating in donor-facing environmentsStrong interpersonal presence, with the ability to build trust and credibility with senior stakeholdersExperience managing multiple donor relationships and moving prospects through a pipelineAbility to work both independently and in collaboration with senior leadershipStrong organizational skills and attention to detailExcellent written and verbal communication skillsDemonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion across all forms of diversity and differenceAt least 8 years of relevant experience in development, fundraising, or related external-facing rolesWhat You Can ExpectLaureus USA is a high-performing team with a strong track record of impact, national partnerships, and engagement from some of the world's most recognized athletes. As part of this team, you can expect a collaborative environment where individuals take ownership of their work while also stepping in to support broader organizational priorities as needed.This role offers the opportunity to play a central part in strengthening and growing Laureus' individual giving and overall fundraising efforts. You will work closely with the Sr. Director, External Affairs and Executive Director to build relationships, develop strategy, and contribute to achieving the organization's annual fundraising goals. This role will also provide opportunities to engage with Laureus' Athlete Council and broader athlete network as part of donor cultivation and engagement efforts.The role is highly external-facing and will require regular engagement with donors and partners, as well as participation in events, including some evenings and weekends.CompensationThe expected salary range for this role is $110,000 to $130,000, with eligibility for performance-based bonus and a comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and alignment with the qualifications and attributes of the role.