Director of Development

The Loppet Foundation is a mission-driven organization that connects people to the outdoors through community experiences that promote anti-racism, collaboration, growth, inclusion, play, stewardship, and well-being. The Loppet provides quality programming for people of all ages and experience levels, produces world‑class events, and continually works to create a welcoming, inclusive community within Theodore Wirth Park and beyond. Development Director — Job Posting Job Summary: The Loppet seeks a Development Director to lead its philanthropic efforts. The Development Director works closely with the Executive Director, the Board of Directors, and program directors. The position is responsible for planning and implementing a comprehensive development strategy that includes major gifts, foundation giving, sponsorships, grants, corporate partnerships, annual giving, public funding, planned giving, and donor cultivation events. The Development Director will also collaborate with the marketing team to align communication strategies, solicitations, and more. Responsibilities Develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy to meet the organization’s fundraising goals. Create effective donor communications and appeal letters; track and analyze campaign effectiveness. Supervise and manage the Development team, including developing work plans and ensuring goal attainment. Serve as the primary staff liaison to the Development Committee of the Board of Directors. Build and execute an annual sponsorship plan to deepen engagement with corporate supporters. Maintain a portfolio of approximately 75 major donors and prospects; steward, cultivate, and solicit gifts. Partner with Administration and Finance to ensure accurate data management and reconciliation. Plan and coordinate development events across existing and new initiatives. Monitor and analyze data to evaluate performance and adjust strategies as needed. Collaborate with the marketing team to develop storytelling strategies. Enhance systems for grant reporting and reconciliation. Participate in advancing the Loppet’s Mission, Values, and Strategic Equity Goals. Other duties as assigned. Preferred Qualifications Minimum of seven years of nonprofit fundraising experience, including at least three years in a senior development role, with a proven track record in major gifts, foundation giving, corporate partnerships, grants, annual appeals, and donor events. Five years of supervisory experience. Strong track record of meeting and exceeding organizational goals. Advanced written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to create compelling donor communications. Strong leadership and management skills, with experience leading a team of development professionals. Excellent interpersonal skills, active listening, and a positive representation of the organization that reflects its mission and values. Demonstrated ability to collaborate with colleagues, board members, and volunteers. Experience with development software and/or CRM donor databases (Neon preferred). Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. CFRE certification. Other Requirements Access to reliable transportation. Ability to pass a criminal background check. Ability to work some evenings and weekend events as needed. This is a full‑time salaried position. Schedule and location are generally flexible, with a requirement to be present during regular business hours. The annual salary range is $90,000–$100,000, depending on demonstrable experience. The Development Director reports directly to the Executive Director and supervises the Major & Corporate Giving Officer and Grants Manager, with a dotted‑line relationship to additional part‑time administrative staff. Benefits Mileage reimbursement. Unlimited PTO. 401(k) retirement plan with 4% Loppet Foundation employer match. Three health insurance plan options. Dental insurance. Life insurance. Employee discounts and the opportunity to work and play in Theodore Wirth Park. EEO Statement We recognize the need for a diverse workforce and understand that traditionally underrepresented communities must be centered in the work we do. As a Foundation, we are committed to building a blended team that reflects the community we serve. We strongly encourage BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, female/trans/non‑binary‑identified individuals to apply. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. The organization is unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of employment visas at this time. #J-18808-Ljbffr