Job Descriptions/ Development Director

Development Director Job Description: Duties, Skills, Education & Salary

Development directors are senior professionals focused on fundraising. They cultivate donor relationships and secure financial support to advance an organisation's mission. They work with executive leaders and board members to create development plans.

Use our job-post-ready loan officer job description template to attract top professionals. It includes key responsibilities, essential skills, educational requirements, and salary insights. Simplify your candidate search.

May 21, 2025

Development Director Job Description Template

Job Title: Development Director

Location: [Insert Location]

Job Type: [Full-time/Part-time]

Reports To: Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising initiatives and donor engagement efforts. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in securing major gifts, managing fundraising campaigns, and building lasting relationships with donors. This role requires a dynamic individual who can align development strategies with our organization's goals and values.

Development Director Responsibilities and Duties

Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet annual and long-term financial goals.
Identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events and campaigns.
Manage donor databases and ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting.
Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to align fundraising efforts with organizational objectives.
Prepare grant proposals and reports to secure funding from various sources.
Lead and mentor development staff and volunteers.
Monitor fundraising trends and adjust strategies accordingly.

Development Director Qualifications and Skills

Strong understanding of fundraising principles and best practices.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
Proficiency in donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
High level of integrity and commitment to ethical fundraising practices.

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of five years of experience in fundraising or nonprofit development.
Proven track record of meeting fundraising goals and securing major gifts.
Previous management experience is a plus.

Submit your resume and a concise cover letter explaining why you’re a great fit. If possible, include examples of past work or results that reflect your skills. To apply, email your resume to [[email protected]] or call us at [+1 999999999] for more details.

Development Director Average Salary

The estimated total pay for a Development Director in the United States is $151,180 per year, with an average base salary of $112,039 per year. These figures can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the organization.

Hire the Right Development Director Today

Hiring the right Development Director is key for your organisation's fundraising success and long-term sustainability. A skilled Development Director can improve donor relationships, boost funding opportunities, and greatly contribute to your organisation's growth and impact.

Furthermore, you can enhance your candidate search by using AI recruitment software like Skima AI. It offers an AI search feature that allows you to search for top applicants by just typing what you want, like a Google search.

For example, type "Development director with 4 years of experience in New York", and it will search millions of profiles globally and then rank the best ones for you. Skima AI is the leading recruiter-centric platform, trusted by top hiring teams. Start your free trial now.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Development Director?

A Development Director is a senior professional who leads fundraising efforts. They also cultivate relationships with donors and secure financial support. Their goal is to advance the organization's mission.

2. What does a Development Director do?

A Development Director strategizes and oversees fundraising campaigns, engages with donors, and collaborates with leadership to ensure financial sustainability and growth of the organization.

3. What are the responsibilities of a Development Director?

Responsibilities of a Development Director include developing fundraising strategies, managing donor databases, organizing events, writing grant proposals, and leading development staff to meet financial goals.

4. How to hire a Development Director?

To hire a Development Director, first define your fundraising goals. Then, evaluate candidates based on their experience with donor relations and campaign management. You should also use platforms like Skima AI to help find top talent efficiently.