Head of Development & Fundraising

The Director of Development (DoD) will be based in Indiana and will require statewide and some national travel. The DoD will serve as a senior fundraising leader responsible for growing philanthropic revenue through individual giving, corporate partnerships, and strategic fundraising initiatives.

This position works closely with the Chief Development & Communications Officer (CDCO) to develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies that support Foster Success’s strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

The ideal candidate is a highly relational fundraiser who excels at being donor-centered, identifying opportunities, building meaningful partnerships, crafting compelling cases for support, and securing transformational investments.

This role reports directly to the Chief Development & Communications Officer (CDCO). Support planned giving identification and relationship development.

Corporate & Community Partnerships Develop and manage relationships with corporate partners and community organizations.

Create customized partnership proposals aligned with Foster Success priorities.

Represent Foster Success within the business community and professional associations.

Establish, with support from the CDCO, annual fundraising goals for Individual and Corporate giving, performance metrics, and professional development plans.

Director of Donor Relations in establishing goals and performance metrics on donor retention, donor relations/stewardship, and volunteer engagement.

Contribute to annual budget development and revenue forecasting.

Embrace innovation, thoughtful risk-taking, and continuous improvement.

Partner with the Program and Marketing & Communications teams to create compelling donor-facing content.

Maintain accurate donor records and prospect activity within Salesforce and Tableau.

Monitor fundraising performance and pipeline activity.

Ensure compliance with organizational policies and ethical fundraising standards.

Position Requirements Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.

Experience cultivating corporate and foundation partnerships.

Experience with CRM systems, preferably Salesforce.

Experience working with youth-serving organizations.

Experience in sponsorship development and grant management.

All Foster Success employees are required to: Display a strong commitment to the inclusion of all individuals in the workplace.

Adhere to all policies and procedures outlined in the Foster Success employment agreements and the organizational Handbook, including all confidentiality requirements for all client information.

Proficiency in computer skills and experience with and knowledge of relevant software, particularly Salesforce, Zoom, Google, and Microsoft Products.

Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes some weekends and/or evenings in order to meet responsibilities of this position and organizational goals.

Must have reliable transportation for work-related travel.

All team members are required to pass a background check and undergo fingerprint screening.

Candidates will be evaluated on the following competencies during the selection process, reflecting our values of Equity & Inclusion, Innovation, Impact, and Collaboration:

Relationship-Based Fundraising Builds authentic relationships with donors, corporate partners, foundations, volunteers, and community leaders. Develops and executes strategies to grow individual giving, corporate partnerships, sponsorships, foundation support, and other philanthropic revenue. Identifies opportunities, manages donor pipelines, and helps advance long-term sustainability. Successfully manages multiple priorities, donor portfolios, and special projects while meeting deadlines and maintaining a high level of organization and attention to detail.

Equity & Inclusion Approaches fundraising with a commitment to equity. Ensures donor engagement and fundraising practices honor the dignity, strengths, and lived experiences of young people with foster care experience.

Provides clear direction, coaching, and accountability to development staff. Data, Strategy & Problem-Solving Uses donor data, giving trends, and revenue projections to inform fundraising strategy.