Director of Development Job Description Template
The Director of Development is responsible for leading and executing the development strategy for the organization. This includes identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding major gifts from individuals, corporations and foundations. The Director of Development also manages a portfolio of relationships and works with the Executive Director to secure funding for the organization's programs and operations. In addition, the Director of Development oversees the development staff, including the Grants Manager and Annual Giving Officer.
Director of Development Job Responsibilities
- The Director of Development is responsible for leading and executing the organization's fundraising strategy.
- The Director of Development works closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to set fundraising goals and objectives.
- The Director of Development designs and implements comprehensive fundraising plans to meet annual and longterm goals.
- The Director of Development manages a team of development staff and volunteers, and is responsible for their training and supervision.
- The Director of Development cultivates relationships with major donors, prospects, and other key stakeholders.
- The Director of Development writes grant proposals, manages corporate giving programs, oversees special events, and stewards donor relationships.
Objectives
- To secure philanthropic support for the organization through effective fundraising strategies and campaigns.
- To cultivate and stewards relationships with major donors, foundations, and other key partners.
- To develop and implement an integrated development plan that includes annual giving, planned giving, capital campaigns, corporate relations, and special events.
- To expand the donor base by identifying and soliciting new prospects.
- To oversee the management of the development office, including budgeting, staff supervision, and strategic planning.
- To serve as a liaison between the Board of Directors and Development Committee to ensure alignment of fundraising priorities with organizational goals.
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Director of Development Job Skills & Qualifications Needed
- There is no onesize-fits-all answer to this question, as the skills and qualifications needed for the role of Director of Development will vary depending on the specific organization and its needs. However, some general skills and qualifications that would be beneficial for a Director of Development include:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Experience with fundraising or development in a nonprofit setting
- Familiarity with database management and donor tracking systems
- Ability to cultivate relationships with donors and other key stakeholders