Development Director, Non-Profit Foundation

Our client, a highly respected non-profit organization, is seeking a seasoned and strategic Development Director to lead fundraising efforts and advance their mission in Durham, North Carolina . This senior leadership role requires a dynamic individual with a proven ability to cultivate donor relationships, develop successful fundraising campaigns, and inspire philanthropic support. You will be responsible for managing all aspects of development, including major gifts, annual giving, grants, and special events. This hybrid position offers a balance between essential in-office strategic planning and collaboration, and the flexibility of remote work.

Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to meet annual and long-term financial goals. Cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations. Oversee the annual giving program, including appeals, donor acquisition, and retention strategies. Manage the grant writing and reporting process, identifying and pursuing opportunities with foundations and government agencies. Plan and execute successful fundraising events, including galas, cultivation events, and awareness campaigns. Build and maintain strong, meaningful relationships with current and prospective donors. Develop compelling case statements, proposals, and donor communications materials. Manage and mentor the development team, providing guidance and professional development. Utilize fundraising database (CRM) effectively for donor management, tracking, and reporting. Collaborate with the Board of Directors and other stakeholders to leverage their networks and expertise. Stay informed about best practices in non-profit fundraising and philanthropy. Ensure compliance with all ethical fundraising standards and regulations. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in non-profit development and fundraising, with a significant portion in a leadership role. Demonstrated success in securing major gifts and building sustainable donor relationships. Proven experience with grant writing and foundation relations. Strong understanding of all facets of fundraising, including annual giving, planned giving, and corporate sponsorships. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive narratives. Proficiency in donor management software (CRM systems such as Raiser's Edge, Salesforce Non-profit Cloud). Strong leadership, management, and team-building capabilities. Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including donors, board members, staff, and volunteers. Passion for the client's mission and a commitment to non-profit excellence. This is a rewarding opportunity for a passionate development professional to significantly impact the growth and sustainability of a vital non-profit organization in the heart of Durham .